What is Stephen Ministry?
Stephen Ministry is a caregiving ministry of Glen Mar Church. Stephen Ministers provide Christ centered, one on one caregiving for those who are experiencing a stressful season of their lives.
Who are Stephen Ministers?
Stephen Ministers are congregation members who train for 50 hours in Christ Centered caregiving. Each Stephen Minister is then matched with a hurting person – men are paired with men, women with women – and meets with that person weekly to listen, care, pray, and encourage. Caring relationships last for as long as the need persists, typically not more than one year.
For what kinds of life challenges do Stephen Ministers offer care?
Stephen Ministers care for those dealing with grief, divorce, job loss, hospitalization, financial struggles, loneliness, convalescence, chronic illness, terminal illness, and other life difficulties. Confidentiality is of utmost importance to all involved in Stephen Ministry.
How does Stephen Ministry support the Mission of Glen Mar?
Stephen Ministers:
- Praise God through prayer in thanksgiving for the opportunity to engage in Christian caregiving.
- Grow Disciples through our training of new Stephen Ministers
- Serve the World through Christian caregiving of Glen Martians and members of our community.
What is the Biblical basis of Stephen Ministry?
The “Stephen” for whom Stephen Ministry is names was “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5). He was the first person chosen by the apostles to care for the needs of the people. Stephen Ministers follow in his footsteps and are trained to listen, encourage, and pray with those in need. Stephen Ministry is an example of following Jesus’ command to “love the Lord your God with all your heart . . . and your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27).
Is Stephen Ministry only found at Glen Mar?
No! The Stephen Ministries organization, based in St. Louis, has helped more than 13,000 congregations implement Stephen Ministry. These congregations represent more than 150 denominations and come from all 50 states, 10 Canadian provinces, and 23 other countries. In fact, Glen Mar is part of a consortium of churches in the area that share resources, including training of our Stephen Ministers.
How can I get a Stephen Minister?
Contact Pastor Mandy, Pastor Melaina, Pastor Heerak or email us. Stephens steven stevens steven’s stephen’s