Stephen Ministry
What Is Stephen Ministry?
"Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."
Galatians 6:2
Stephen Ministry equips congregation members—called Stephen Ministers—to provide Christ-centered care to those facing life difficulties.
Who’s Involved?
Stephen Leaders are church staff, lay leaders, and pastors trained to provide ongoing leadership for their congregation’s Stephen Ministry. They are equipped for this key role through the Stephen Leader Training Course offered by Stephen Ministries St. Louis.
Stephen Ministers are congregation members trained by their Stephen Leaders to offer care to people who are hurting. A Stephen Minister typically has one care receiver at a time and meets with that person once a week for about an hour.
Care Receivers are individuals in the congregation or community who are going through a crisis or life difficulty. Potential care receivers first meet with a pastor or Stephen Leader, who assesses their needs for care and matches them with a Stephen Minister. The caring relationship lasts for as long as the need persists.
The Blessings of Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry multiplies blessings throughout the church and community.
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Congregations carry out Christ’s commandment to “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12 RSV) in a powerful and practical way.
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Pastors have a team of gifted, trained, and committed lay caregivers ready to minister to hurting people.
(Find more details for pastors here.) -
Laypeople nurture and use their gifts in meaningful ministry, growing spiritually as they serve others.
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People who are hurting have a caring Christian presence to provide emotional and spiritual support.
In short, Stephen Ministry helps carry out the mission of the church.