Stephen Ministry  

What is Stephen Ministry?

One-to-one Ministry by Trained, Caring Lay-Ministers who have responded to Christ’s call to “carry other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Gal.6:2

"Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ." Galations 6:2

What is a Stephen Minister?

A Stephen Minister is…

• A committed Christian who walks beside a hurting person
• A good listener
• Trained in confidentiality
• Supervised for quality care

A Stephen Minister is NOT…

• A counselor or therapist
• A problem solver
• A casual visitor

Who May Need a Stephen Minister?

People who are dealing with:

• Loneliness
• Loss of a loved one
• Retirement changes
• Loss of a job
• Childbirth
• Hospitalization
• Separation and divorce
• Terminal illness
• Chronic illness
• Families of the chronically ill
• Struggling with faith in God
• Facing changes in their lives
• Family frustrations and challenges

How to Refer Someone for a Stephen Minister:

1. A person—either you, a relative, or a friend—is hurting and in need of Christian care.
   
   
2. The Stephen Ministry Referrals Coordinator learns about this need for care from a pastor, a friend, or from the person in need of care and only after the person in need has granted permission.
   
   
3. The Referrals Coordinator meets with the person to talk about Stephen Ministry.
   
   
4. With the person’s permission, the Referrals Coordinator assigns a Stephen Minister to meet on a weekly basis with that person.
   
   
5. The Stephen Minister provides distinctively Christian and strictly confidential care.

If you or someone you know could benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister, please pick up a Stephen Ministry brochure at the church, fill out the card on the back and return it to the church office. Or call the church office and ask to speak to a pastor or our Referrals Coordinator for Stephen Ministries (269) 429-1041.