Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry provides confidential, lay-pastoral care ministry in life-challenging situations such as: hospitalization, grief, new life stages, illness, disability, unemployment, separation, or divorce.
Click here to download an informative brochure to share with others.
Who can Request a Stephen Minister?
As an adult member of our church community, you can request a Stephen Minister to walk alongside you on your journey to wholeness, or request a Stephen Minister for someone you know is hurting.
How do I Get a Stephen Minister?
We work hard to match you as a “care receiver” to one of our Stephen Ministers. Our Stephen Ministers are unique with a variety of backgrounds and experiences. After your initial request, you’ll talk with one of our Stephen Leaders to better determine your needs – all confidentially. Your Stephen Minister will call to talk with you and meet with you. Meetings are typically set up weekly for 1 hour.
How Can I Become a Stephen Minister?
Stephen Ministers come from all walks of life, bringing a passion for Christ’s love and care to people in need.
You’ll go through training sessions designed to give you skills to provide Christian caregiving to help people who are hurting. Stephen Ministers receive 50 hours of training, covered in 20 sessions. Among the training topics:
- Feelings: Yours, Mine, and Ours
- The Art of Listening
- Distinctively Christian Caring
- Assertiveness: Relating Gently and Firmly
- Maintaining Boundaries in Caregiving
- Confidentiality
- Ministering to Those Experiencing Grief
- Caring for People before, during and after hospitalization
If you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, contact Chuck Osburn. Stephen Ministry training is held every 2 or 3 years.