Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry provides distinctively Christian, one-to-one, gender specific, confidential care to those experiencing difficulties in their lives. Pastors will always be on the front lines of care, especially during times of crisis, but there are always many more needs for ongoing care than pastors can effectively meet by themselves. Stephen Ministry provides a biblical solution—equipping God’s people for ministry. – Ephesians 4:12a

FAQ's

A Stephen Minister is a...

  • Member of Crossings who walks beside a person who is hurting.
  • Christian who takes the time to really listen, is willing to talk about spiritual issues but will not force them.
  • Person who makes regular contacts and visits, usually weekly.
  • Committed lay person who has received 50 hours of initial training in caring ministry skills and concepts.
  • Participant in regular continued education, support, and supervision under the guidance of trained Stephen Leaders.

A Stephen Minister is not a...

  • Counselor
  • Therapist
  • Problem solver
  • Casual visitor

A care receiver is...

  • A member of Crossings who needs ongoing care during a life challenge.
  • A person who needs someone he/she can trust and know their relationship will be confidential. An individual who will commit to meeting with his/ her Stephen Minister on a regular basis.
  • Needing someone who does not “do for” but is “there for.”   

People who are experiencing:

  • Hospitalization
  • Illness (chronic or terminal)
  • Family frustrations and challenges
  • Loss of a loved one
  • Separation or divorce
  • Grief
  • A chronically or terminally ill family member
  • Loneliness
  • Being shut-in
  • Birth, adoption, miscarriage, or infertility
  • Low self-esteem
  • Unemployment or job crisis
  • Financial setbacks
  • Spiritual struggles
  • Aging, retirement
  • Relocation
  • Recovery following an accident or disaster
  • Incarceration
  • Various other life changes

The Stephen Ministry symbol consists of a cross and circle together with a broken person and a whole person. The broken person behind the cross symbolizes the brokenness that sometimes occurs in our lives. The whole person stands in front of the cross. It is only through the cross of Jesus that we are made whole. The circle symbolizes both the wholeness we receive through Christ and God’s unending love for us.

During the time of the early church, the apostles decided to choose among their faithful disciples those who would be sent into the community to minister to the needs of the people. “And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit...” – Acts 6:5 NRSV

Questions?

If you have questions regarding Stephen Ministry, we invite you to call Congregational Care at (405) 302-1219.