STEPHEN MINISTRIESIs life more than you can handle alone right now? Are you adjusting to a new job, a change in marital status, a serious illness, the death of a loved one, a recent move-or just experiencing a lonely or difficult time in your life? Could you benefit from having someone who would listen and care and walk with you through this time? There is no need to struggle alone!
Everyone goes through difficult times. Having someone to care, to listen, to share God’s love with you can help you get through the confusing, stress, or loneliness you may be experiencing. God does not intend for you to struggle alone. Consider allowing a Stephen Minister to walk with you on your journey to wholeness.
Stephen Ministers Care
Our Stephen Ministers provide confidential one-to-one Christian care to people who are: grieving the death of a loved one, hospitalized or recovering from hospitalization, lonely or discouraged, coping with a terminal illness, unemployed or in a job crisis, disabled or caring for an ill or disabled family member, moving or relocating, new to the congregation, anticipating the birth or adoption of a child, homebound, transitioning into retirement, dealing with aging, facing a life transition, experience a spiritual crisis, victims of a disaster or accident. And for people who are, generally, going through a difficult time and could benefit from the care of a supportive Christian friend.
What is a Stephen Minister?
A child of God who walks beside a hurting person, a caring Christian friend who really listens, A member of our congregation who has received 50 hours of training in how to provide Christian care, A person who is ready to focus on your needs, a trustworthy confident who will keep everything you say- even your identity confidential, and someone who will faithfully meet with you on a weekly basis for as long as your need persists.
A Stephen Minister is NOT…
A counselor or therapist, a problem solver, someone who runs errands or helps with chores, or a casual visitor.
Why Stephen Ministry?
Because the bible tells us to:
“Love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:12
“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the laws of Christ.” Galations 6:2
“Encourage one another and build each other up.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11a
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Romans 12:15
“Serve one another in love.” Galations 5:13
“Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers and sisters, be compassionate and humble.” 1 Peter 3:8“Be king and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32
Contact one of our Stephen leaders below. They can tell you more about our Stephen Ministry and how you- or your friend- can be matched with a Stephen Minister.
Coral Turner 246-1653,
Trudy Bakgaard 289-8874
