What is Stephen Ministry?
Stephen Ministry is a caregiving program in which trained laypeople provide confidential, one-on-one Christian care to individuals in our congregation and community who are going through difficult times. Stephen Ministers listen non-judgmentally to their care receivers to provide support, encouragement, and prayer. Stephen Ministry is confidential: the identity of those receiving care and what is discussed in the caring relationship remains private. Stephen Ministers and their care receivers meet one hour a week for as long as needed. Stephen Ministers are not therapists or advisors; they are not there to “fix” their care receiver’s life, nor do they provide services such as food delivery, household care, etc. There is no fee. Receivers must be 18 or older.
Who might need a Stephen Minister?
Stephen Ministry is for those who are facing difficult life situations. These might include: death of a loved one, hospitalization, mild to moderate depression, serious or life-threatening illness, job loss, compassion fatigue, coming out, physical disability, natural disaster, divorce, care for a special needs child, unplanned pregnancy, miscarriage, parenting struggles, empty nest, trouble with the law, or other important struggles.
How do I schedule time with a Stephen Minister?
Contact our office any time at (530) 895-3754, and we will put you in touch with a Stephen Minister who can talk to you about your care and needs.