Stephen Ministry
|
What Is Stephen Ministry?
Strated in 1975, the organization has grown to include 13,000 congregations in over 190 Christian denominations across North America and in 30 other countries. 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 member of the community with gifts for caregiving who was carefully selected to serve in this role. A lay person who has received extensive 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. Stephen Ministry in our congregation
Stephen Ministry Is YOUR Ministry You play an important role in Stephen Ministry. Here’s what you can do:
Stephen Ministry Is a Confidential Ministry The identity of those receiving care and what takes place in each caring relationship remain totally private. Stephen Ministry Multiplies Ministry Pastors will always be on the front lines of care, especially during times of crisis. But there are always many more needs for ongoing, one-to-one care than pastors can effectively meet by themselves. Stephen Ministry provides a biblical solution– equipping God’s people for ministry. Gifted lay people are trained to support and extend the care that pastors continue to provide. Stephen Ministers reach out with God’s love to people who are hurting– both congregation members and nonmembers alike. If you are a good listener and a compassionate person, prayerfully consider becoming a Stephen Minister. “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
|