What is Stephen Ministry?

Our congregation's Stephen Ministry equips lay people to provide confidential, one-to-one Christian care to individuals in our congregation and community who are experiencing difficulties in their lives.

A Stephen Minister Is . . .

• A child of God who walks beside a person who is hurting

• A congregational member with gifts for care giving, who was carefully selected to serve in this role

• A lay person who has received 50 hours of training in providing emotional and spiritual care

• A caring, Christian friend who listens, cares, prays, supports, and encourages

• Someone who will "be there" for his or her care receiver, meeting faithfully for about an hour each week, for as long as there is a need.

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"Love one another - as I have loved you."  John 13:34

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

"Therefore encourage one another and build up each other."  1 Thessalonians 5:11

"To equip the saints for the work of ministry."  Ephesians 4:12a

Stephen Ministry Is Your Ministry

You play an important role in our Stephen Ministry.  Here is what you can do:

• Pray for God to bring hope and healing to hurting people through our Stephen Ministry

• Accept care from a Stephen Minister during your time of need.  God doesn't expect you to bear your burdens alone

• Tell a friend, neighbor, co-worker, or relative who is hurting about our Stephen Ministry

• If you are a good listener and a compassionate person, prayerfully consider becoming a Stephen Minister

Stephen Leaders are . . .

Trained leaders in our congregation who oversee and direct our Stephen Ministry.

• If you -- or someone you know -- could benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister ...

• If you are interested in possibly becoming a Stephen Minister ...

• If you have any other questions about Stephen Ministry ...

then talk to Margaret Lee, or Pastor Emily McColl.