Stephen Ministry in Our Congregation
"Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2
Stephen Ministry is a program of our congregation that equips lay persons to provide distinctively Christian one-to-one care to those who are experiencing all kinds of life needs and circumstances, both in our congregation and community.
Stephen Ministers are committed Christian people who:
- express God's care through their lives to others;
- receive 50 hours of initial training in important caring ministry skills and concepts;
- are commissioned as Stephen Ministers after completing their initial training;
- visit another person regularly and dependably and offer Christian support and care;
- participate in regular support and supervision under the guidance of trained Stephen Leaders;
- are committed to preserving the confidential nature of the caring relationship;
- serve at least two years;
- receive continuing education and skill building throughout their years of service.
Meets the Needs of People
There are times when each of us needs the care of another person, a Christian friend, a Stephen Minister! These needs include but are not limited to:
-
the hospitalized
- the terminally ill and their families
- the aging and elderly
- those with a job crisis
- those grieving a death or serious loss
- those facing life transitions
- those in spiritual crisis
- households experiencing birth or adoption
- the separated or divorced
Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry; those receiving care can be sure that their identity and what goes on in the caring relationship will remain private.
Maybe a Stephen Minister can help you. Consider having a Stephen Minister walk with you or a friend on a journey to wholeness. Call the church office at 706-733-2275 for more information or to have a Stephen Leader contact you.
"My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." John 15:12
