Small Groups
What is the Stephen Ministry?
It is a ministry provided by members of our church community grounded in Jesus’ command to love one another. This program equips lay persons to provide Christian one-on-one care to those who are experiencing all kinds of life challenges and circumstances, both in our congregation and community.
Could You Benefit from the Stephen Ministry?
- Is life more than you can handle alone right now?
- Is your health, your attitude or your relationships suffering?
- Are you adjusting to a new job, changes in your life or moving to a new city?
- Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one?
Everyone goes through pain and struggle and having someone to care, listen and come along side to share God’s love can help you get through the confusion, stress or loneliness that you may be experiencing.
About Stephen Ministers
What a Stephen Minister is…
Stephen Ministers seek to solve problems WITH people, rather than FOR people. There are times when everyone needs the care of another person, friend or Stephen Minister. These needs may include but are not limited to…
- The hospitalized, the terminally ill and their families
- People who move in and out of our community
- Those grieving a death or serious loss
- Home-bound persons, the aging and the elderly
- Those with disabilities and their families
- Those facing life transitions, retirement and setbacks
- Those separated and divorced
- Prisoners and their families
- Those facing loneliness, identity crisis and lowly self-esteem
- Those struggling with faith in God
What a Stephen Minister is not…
- A counselor or therapist
- A problem solver
- A casual visitor
Requesting a Stephen Minister
If you, a relative or friend would like a Stephen Minister, contact the Pastor Care Office at (765) 642-2000.
Becoming a Stephen Minister
Our Purpose
The goal of Stephen Ministries is to proclaim through word and deed the Gospel of Jesus Christ by nurturing, edifying, educating, and equipping the whole people of God who are called, gifted and sent to be ever more effective servants in caring for the needs of the whole person.
What does a Stephen Minister look like?
- Stephen Ministers are committed Christian people who express God’s love by helping others
- They receive 50 hours of initial training in important caring ministry skills and concepts
- They are commissioned as Stephen Ministers after completing their initial training
- They visit their care receiver regularly and offer Christian support and care.
- They participate in regular monthly meetings under the guidance of trained Stephen Leaders and continue to receive education and building their skills throughout their years of service.
- They are committed to preserving the confidential nature of the caring relationships
For more information on becoming a Stephen Minister, contact the Pastoral Care Office at (765) 642-2000 or one of the Stephen Ministry Leaders below:
- Nancy McCafferty: (765) 644-1472
- Cherie Ritz: (765) 778-7513