 Stephen Ministry
Christ Caring for People through People
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
What is Stephen Ministry?
Stephen Ministry is a Christ-centered ministry that equips lay people to provide distinctively Christian one-to-one care to those in our church and community who are experiencing a time of need or challenge.
Who needs a Stephen Minister?
There are times when each of us needs the care of another person, a Christian friend. Stephen Ministers care for:
- those who are facing serious or terminal illness
- those who are grieving a death or serious loss
- those who are experiencing a job or financial crisis
- those who are aging and elderly or who are caring for aging or elderly family members
- those who are separated or divorced
- those who are lonely
- households experiencing birth or adoption
- those who are in spiritual crisis
- those who are needing the support and encouragement of a Christian friend
What takes place in a care giving relationship?
The relationship involves three participants: God is the cure giver, the Stephen Minister is the care giver and the person requesting a Stephen Minister is the care receiver.
Within this relationship the care giver:
- is committed to confidentiality
- listens but does not judge, advise or offer solutions
- listens with compassion, objectivity and the love of Christ
- prays with and for the care receiver
- has no agenda other than sharing Christ's love
The care receiver may:
- talk without embarrassment
- repeat a point to exhaustion
- cry openly and without shame
- visit his/her soul in depth
What is the Upper Room?
The Upper Room is located in Room 243 in the church office area on the second floor. It is staffed by Stephen Ministers every Sunday from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., and may be used by anyone in need of a listening ear or a prayer.
Does Stephen Ministry replace the pastoral ministry of the church?
Absolutely not! Stephen Ministry expands the ministry of the pastors by providing more workers in the Body of Christ. Stephen Ministry allows pastors to reach more people with Christian care than they would be able to alone. In this way the care giving of the church is greatly multiplied.
How do I request a Stephen Minister?
A Stephen Minister may be requested by contacting Rev. Denise Beltzner at (770) 427-0293 or any one of our ministers. Or you may call our referral coordinator, Claire Francis, at (770) 427-3606.
Who are Stephen Ministers?
Stephen Ministers are committed Christians who visit a care receiver regularly, are committed to confidentiality, listen to concerns and pray. Each Stephen Minister:
- receives extensive training in caring skills
- participates in regular support and supervision under trained Stephen Leaders
- agrees to serve for at least two years
- has continuing education and care giving experience
- has been commissioned as a Stephen Minister by the church
How do I become a Stephen Minister?
Anyone of our trained Stephen Ministers would be happy to share what it is like to participate in this ministry. Training classes are offered yearly and run through the school year. Please call Claire Francis at (770) 427-3606 for more information about the class.
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