Stephen Ministry is...a system through which disciples of First United Methodist Church have been trained and organized to help provide Christian care-giving to our congregation and community. This multiplies the caring ministry that our church can provide by giving us a whole team of skilled caregivers who are equipped to bring Christ's healing presence to people who are grieving, in crisis, or experiencing other stress in life. Stephen Ministry is grounded in Jesus’ command to love one another. Through one-to-one caring relationships, those who are hurting receive the love and care they need.
| ► | Life may be more than a person can handle at a particular time in their life. |
| ► | A person may be adjusting to a new job, change in marital status, a serious illness, the death of a loved one, or a recent move. |
| ► | They need someone in his or her life who really cares. |
| ► | Everyone goes through difficult times. Having someone to care, to listen, and to share God’s love can help a person get through the confusion, stress, or loneliness they may be experiencing. |
A Stephen Minister is…A child of God who walks beside a person who is hurting. A caring, Christian friend who takes time to really listen. A lay person who has received 50 hours of training in how to provide distinctively Christian care.
A Stephen Minister is NOT…A counselor or therapist, problem-solver or a casual visitor.
Who May Need a Stephen Minister?
| People who are dealing with: Illness/hospitalization, family frustrations and challenges, moving transitions, unemployment, death or serious loss or other major life changes. | |
| Could you benefit from the confidential, one-to-one care of a Stephen Minister? | |
| Do you know someone else who could benefit from Stephen Ministry? | |
| Are you interested in possibly becoming a Stephen Minister? |
Then please contact our Associate Pastor or our Senior Pastor at (704) 636-3121 for more information or to answer any questions you may have about Stephen Ministry.
If you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, please download the following application, complete, and return to the church office.
Senior Pastor: Steve Haines
Our Stephen Ministers Are Ready to Care for You!