Stephen Ministry Details

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

· 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 of life challenges or who are going through a difficult time and could benefit from the care of a supportive Christian friend.

What is a Stephen Minister?

A Stephen Minister is…

· A child of God who walks beside a hurting person;

· A caring Christian friend 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.

Why Stephen Ministry?

Because the Bible tells us to:

“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.” I 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.” I Peter 3:8

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

Who Is Stephen?

Stephen and several others were the first deacons. They were chosen by the early Christian community to care for those in need. (See Acts 6:1-6)

THE STEPHEN MINISTRY LOGO

With the broken person behind the cross and the whole person in front of the cross, symbolizes that we are all broken people and that it is only through the cross of Jesus that we are made whole.

Stephen Ministers will help guide you in your journey from brokenness to wholeness.

Is life more than you can handle alone right now?

Are you adjusting to a new job, a change in marital status, a serious illness, the death of a loved one, a recent move-or just experiencing a lonely or difficult time in your life?

Could you benefit from having someone who would listen and care and walk with you through this difficult time?

There Is No Need to Struggle Alone!

Everyone goes through difficult time. Having someone to care, to listen, to share God’s love with you can help you get through the confusion, stress, or loneliness you may be experiencing. God does not intend for you to struggle alone.

Consider allowing a Stephen Minister to walk with you on your journey to wholeness

Are you in need …

Of a caring, Christian friend who will listen, empathize, encourage, pray, provide confidential care, and patiently support you as you work through a crisis or difficult time?

Do you know someone …

Perhaps a friend, co-worker on your church committee, or someone who shares your church pew, who could benefit from this type of care?

Then contact …

Wanda Moon. She can tell you more about our Stephen Ministry and how you-or your friend-can be matched with a Stephen Minister.