Stephen Ministry

What Is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is all about caring for you
when you are going through tough times.

Stephen Ministers are not counselors or therapists; rather, they are thoughtful Christian brothers and sisters who can help others through the challenging times in life. 

Jesus affirmed the Old Testament teaching to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18). Stephen Ministry is one important, tangible way we show God’s love to others. Stephen Ministers are trained laypeople who provide Christian care and support to those in the congregation and community who are experiencing life challenges. These can include death of a family member or close friend, a difficult diagnosis or other health issues, divorce, job loss, childbirth, aging, spiritual concerns, and many others.

Typically, Stephen Ministers meet with you to help you explore your concerns and think them through. If you like, we can share biblical and other spiritual resources, as well as prayer, to strengthen you as you work through these difficult times. These are not friendship relationships, although we feel very close to our care receivers and friendship often develops after the Stephen
Ministry relationship concludes. Stephen Ministers do not typically provide transportation, care for a loved one, or other similar services, but may be able to help you find resources for these needs. Stephen Ministers are well-trained in maintaining confidentiality; we do not discuss our care receivers with others, even our spouses. In fact, other Stephen Ministers do not know who is receiving care of a Stephen Minister. Your Stephen Minister will not acknowledge you at church or in the community with more than a friendly smile or “hello” unless you initiate greater contact.

There are several ways to get in contact with Stephen Ministry. To learn more about this out-reaching ministry, contact us today through our church office: