Stephen Ministry
The Stephen Ministry Program is a caring, non-judgmental and confidential one-to-one relationship between a trained volunteer and a person experiencing a difficult time or transition in his/her life. Stephen Ministers complete a four-month training course covering Christian caregiving and crisis intervention, followed by twice-monthly supervision and continuing education sessions. In addition, they are committed to providing a listening and supportive environment to those in need of care. Stephen Ministers commit to serve others and participate in regular supervision groups for an initial two-year period, though many choose to serve for much longer.
Who are Stephen Ministers and how can they help me?
People often ask, "What exactly is a Stephen Minister?" One way to put it is that Stephen Ministers are the After People.
. . . after the relationship falls apart and the bottom falls out of your life.
. . . after the doctor says, “I’m sorry, but there’s nothing more we can do.”
. . . after the nursing home director shakes your hand and says, “Welcome to your new home.”
. . . after the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away—and the house suddenly seems empty.
. . . after the gavel comes down, the handcuffs go on, and your loved one is led away.
. . . after the baby arrives, demanding more of you than you ever dreamed possible.
. . . after you find a pink slip with your final paycheck.
. . . after your family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out.
Am I called to be A Stephen Minister?
Stephen Ministers are lay members of our congregation who are trained to provide one-to-one Christian care to those experiencing a difficult time in life, such as grief, divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness, or relocation. Stephen Ministers come from all walks of life, but they all share a passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to people during a time of need.