What is a Stephen Minister?

A Stephen Minister is:

• A child of God who walks beside a hurting person
• A caring Christian who really listens
• A member of our congregation who has received 50 hours of training in how to provide distinctively Christian care
• A person who is ready to focus on your needs
• A trustworthy confidant who will keep everything you say—and even your identity—confidential; and
• Someone who will faithfully meet with you on a weekly basis for as long as your need persists.

A Stephen Minister is not:

• A counselor or therapist
• A problem-solver
• Someone who runs errands or helps with chores; or
• A casual visitor.

Our Stephen Ministers are ready to provide you with the confidential, one-to-one Christian care you need to make it through a crisis or help you through a difficult time.

Stephen Ministers Care

Our Stephen Ministers provide confidential, one-to-one Christian care to people who are:

• Grieving the death of a loved one
• Hospitalized or recovering from hospitalization
• Lonely or discouraged
• Coping with a terminal illness or caring for a family member with a terminal illness
• Unemployed or in a job crisis
• Disabled or caring for an ill or disabled family member
• Moving or relocating
• New to the congregation or the community
• Anticipating the birth or adoption of a child
• Homebound or institutionalized
• Transitioning into retirement
• Dealing with the crisis of aging
• Facing a life transition
• Experiencing a spiritual crisis
• Victims of a disaster or accident

And for people facing countless other crises or life challenges or who are going through a difficult time and could benefit from the care of a supportive Christian friend.

Why Stephen Ministry?

“Love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:12

“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

“Encourage one another and build each other up.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11a

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Romans 12:15 “Serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13

“Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers and sisters, be compassionate and humble.” 1 Peter 3:8

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32