"Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers - not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock" (1 Peter 5:2-3)
Pastoral care ministries are all about caring for people when they are going through a time of difficulty. It may include being present during a time of pain, visiting the sick or infirm, praying with someone during a crisis, or just being a non-judgemental listening ear.
Are you in need of pastoral care or know someone who is? If so, read on to learn about our care-giving team of Stephen Ministers or contact our Pastor at the Contact Us link.
Stephen Ministry
The Stephen Ministry Program is a one-to-one lay caring ministry which provides distinctively Christian care to those who are experiencing life difficulties and circumstances.
Stephen Ministry is a nationwide program and was named after Stephen, the first lay person appointed by the Disciples to "go out and help meet the needs of the people." There are times when each of us may need the care and compassion of another person. We have found that a Christian friend, called a Stephen Minister, can provide this needed support and help the "care receiver" get through the difficult time.
Some of those times of need might include:
- Hospitalization or serious illness
- Grieving a death or serious loss
- Experiencing a job loss
- Issues of those experiencing a divorce
- Problems facing the elderly
- Personal struggles within a family
- Isolation following incarceration
- Spiritual crisis or feelings of abandonment
- Any other circumstance that could be made easier with the support of a Christian friend.
Stephen Ministers are: confidential, non-judgmental, good listeners and reliable.
Stephen Ministers are NOT: professional counselors or ordained pastors.
Interested in learning more about what it means to be a Stephen Minister?
Find out more about Stephen Ministry at StephenMinistries.org
Use the On-line Request form below to:
- Request care from a Stephen Minister
- Express interest in becoming a Stephen Minister
