What is Stephen Ministry?

The Stephen Ministry program equips lay-people to provide one-on-one Christian care to people in our congregation and community who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry. The identity of those receiving care, and everything they discuss, remains private. Pastors will always be on the front lines of care especially during times of crisis. But there are many more needs for ongoing, one-on-one care then pastors can effectively meet by themselves. Stephen Ministry can supplement the need for additional care.

​

Consider allowing a Stephen Minister to walk with you on your journey to wholeness. To request a Stephen Minister, please speak with one of the pastors or a Stephen Leader. For more information, contact the FPCRO office at 248.541.0108.

 

What is a Stephen Minister? A Stephen Minister is…

• A child of God who walks beside a hurting person;

• A caring Christian friend who really listens;

• A lay person who has received 50 hours of training in how to provide distinctively Christian care.

​​

How Does the Referral Process Work?

• A person, either you, a relative, or a friend, is hurting and in need of Christian care.

• The Stephen Ministry Referrals Coordinator learns about this need for care — from the pastor, the person, or a friend, always with the person’s permission.

• The Referrals Coordinator meets with the person to talk about Stephen Ministry

• With the person’s permission, the Referrals Coordinator assigns a Stephen Minister to meet with the person in need on a weekly basis.

• The Stephen Minister continues to provide distinctively Christian care for the person, always in strict confidentiality.

​​

Stephen Ministers are Called to be Care-givers

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

“Encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” 1 Thessalonians 5:14b

 

God is the Cure-giver

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you.” Psalm 55:22a

“Cast all your anxiety on Him, because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7​

 

A Stephen Minister is NOT…

• A counselor or therapist;

• A problem-solver;

• A casual visitor.

 

Stephen Ministry Helps Meet the Needs of Individuals Who Are…

• Hospitalized

• Terminally or chronically ill

• Bereaved

• In a job crisis

• Disabled

• Homebound

• Lonely

• In spiritual crisis

• Divorced or separated