Stephen Ministry

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Question: What is Stephen Ministry?

Answer: Stephen Ministry is one-to-one, confidential, Christian caregiving, by Stephen Ministers in accordance with the ministry system established by the Stephen Ministry Organization, which has been used effectively over thirty years by thousands of churches throughout the United States and internationally.

Question: Who are Stephen Ministers?

Answer: Stephens Ministers are members of our congregation who have a heart for service, and who have answered the call to care for people in need of the type care provided by Stephen Ministry. Stephen Ministers are trained extensively for months, and receive continuing education and thorough supervision as they serve in Stephen Ministry.

Question: When is this ministry done?

Answer: A Stephen Minister provides care by visiting the person in need of care on a weekly basis, with communication by telephone and, if appropriate, by email in-between the weekly personal visits. The caregiving relationship will continue as long as necessary for the person receiving care to get beyond the crisis or overcome the difficulty that caused the need for Stephen Ministry. The caring relationship may last for weeks or months or a year or longer, as needed.

Question: Where does the ministry take place?

Answer: A Stephen Minister usually visits the person receiving care in his or her home; however, it may be at another place that is comfortable and convenient for the person receiving care. Also, Stephen Ministers visit carereceivers in hospitals, nursing homes, in jail, and other places as necessary.

Question: Is it confidential?

Answer: Yes, it is confidential. Stephen Ministers do not disclose the names of their carereceivers.

Question: How much does it cost?

Answer: There is no cost to the person receiving care from a Stephen Minister.

Question: Must I be a church member to receive Stephen Ministry?

Answer: No, it is not required that you be a member of our church, or any church, in order to receive care from a Stephen Minister.

Question: Why should I contact Stephen Ministry?

Answer: If you (or someone you know and love) are experiencing a crisis or a difficult situation, and you need a person who has the compassion and training to come along beside you and listen and support and encourage you during your difficult time, then you should contact Stephen Ministry.

Question: How do I contact Stephen Ministry for further information?

Answer: You may contact our Stephen Ministry by telephone, email or mail as shown in the “Contact Us” section below. Also, you may ask any of our pastors or staff and they will refer you to our Stephen Ministry leaders.