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Stephen Ministry is a one-to-one lay caring ministry that equips and empowers lay caregivers — called Stephen Ministers — to provide high-quality, confidential, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting. Three main groups are involved in Stephen Ministry: Stephen Ministers, Stephen Care Receivers, and Stephen Leaders.
The Stephen Ministry was founded in 1975 and has provided training and resources to thousands of congregations and organizations worldwide. Stephen Ministers are trained members of our congregation who listen, care, encourage, and provide emotional and spiritual support to people going through hard times.
Priests will always be on the front lines of care, especially during difficult circumstances. However, sometimes there are needs for ongoing, one-on-one care that priests can’t effectively meet by themselves. This is where the Stephen Ministry fits in. In order to provide a systematic method to care for those who are hurting.
Stephen Ministry seeks to provide a thoroughly biblical solution – equipping God’s people for ministry. The Stephen Ministry logo represents a care receiver’s journey from brokenness toward wholeness through the cross of Jesus. In this way, it illustrates the Stephen Ministry motto: “Christ caring for people through people.”
“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way fulfill the Law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
There are times when every one of us experiences difficulties. Our Care Receivers can talk with you about a myriad of things you are facing in your life right now. Below are just some of life’s difficulties we can walk with you through.
God never intended for us to go through these experiences alone. That’s why God has brought us together as a congregation – and why we have the Stephen Ministry. A Stephen Minister will meet with you – privately and confidentially – on a weekly basis to listen, care, support, and remind you of Christ’s presence in your life.
These men and women have hearts for those who are hurting and will listen, care, pray, support, and encourage you during your difficult season in life. To ensure that you are receiving high-quality care, each Stephen Minister has attended at least 50 hours of in-depth training. A Stephen Minister is carefully chosen to talk with you about your situation. Stephen Ministers take these opportunities to speak with you very seriously and keep each meeting private and confidential.
Left to Right
Front Row: Gerard, Jodi, Marge, Fr. Rob, Ann, Julie, Dixie, Luke
Back Row: Garrett, Anita, Linda T, Linda N, Cheryl, Dan
If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time and feels they could benefit from having a Stephen Minister meet with you, please call either parish office for more information.