Stephen Ministry
If you wish to receive help from the Stephen Ministry, please contact a Stephen Leader.
Stephen Ministry Is…
a program of our congregation that equips members 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 for a minimum of two years
- receive continuing education and skill building throughout their years of service
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 aging and elderly
- the terminally ill and their families
- those with disabilities and their families
- people who move into or out of our community
- those needing the support of a Christian friend
- those grieving a death or serious loss
- those facing life transitions
- the homebound and institutionalized
- the separated or divorced
- people who are lonely or depressed
- households experiencing birth or adoption
- those with a job crisis
- those in spiritual crisis
Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry; those receiving care can be assured that their identity and what goes on in the caring relationship will remain private.
Stephen Ministry Multiplies Our Christian Care-giving and Outreach
Our Stephen Ministers form one part of our church’s care-giving team. They complement the care already offered by the pastors and, very importantly, that care offered by all of us to one another in the name of Christ.
Stephen Ministry enhances our outreach by
- creating a commitment to caring ministry where many (instead of a few) are offering God’s love and care in intentional, systematic ways.
- enabling our entire congregation to grow as a warm, loving, nurturing community where people are cherished and cared for in Jesus Christ.
- identifying our congregation to our community as a place where people’s needs are taken seriously.
How You Can Support Our Congregation’s Stephen Ministry?
- Pray for our Stephen Leaders and Stephen Ministers as they provide Christian care to others.
- Pray for all who are receiving confidential care through the Stephen Ministry of our congregation.
- Inform Stephen Leaders about those who might benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister–being sure to get that person’s permission first!
- Share with others in our community the availability of our congregation’s Stephen Ministry and the care it can provide.
- Receive Stephen Ministry when you are in need of supportive Christian care.
- Consider serving as a Stephen Minister.
- Support Stephen Ministry with your financial gifts.
If you wish to receive help from the Stephen Ministry, please contact a Stephen Leader.
Latest News About Stephen Ministry:
Got the Blues?
Our Stephen Ministers can help! Stephen Ministers aren’t just for a “big” crisis. They’re also available for the little ones, because many times the little things can really add up. So don’t wait until you have a really big crisis, consider Stephen Ministry if the little things have you feeling down. For more information on Continue Reading...Don’t Panic!
Don’t give up! Be patient! When God doesn’t do what we want, it’s not easy. Sometimes we just need some Christian assurance to remind us to look upward and to remember that God is in control. Could you or someone you love use the care, support and prayers of a Stephen Minister? If so, speak Continue Reading...Stephen Ministry: God’s Love in Action
Are you going through a difficult time? Stephen Ministers are members of our congregation who listen, care, encourage and provide emotional and spiritual support to people who are facing a crisis or going through tough times. The care you’ll receive is confidential, free, and very helpful. To learn how you—or a friend, neighbor, coworker, or Continue Reading...Calling All Men
Occasionally men wonder if Stephen Ministry is really right for them. We can assure you that following Jesus’ example in giving and receiving care is truly a “sport for real men!” All good coaches will tell you that teamwork is important to win a game, and all who serve as Stephen Ministers become part of Continue Reading...New Stephen Ministry Training Class to Begin
You have seen the ministry of the Stephen Ministers here at PHCPC. Have you thought that perhaps you would like to participate in this ministry? Your opportunity to do so has arrived! The next Stephen Ministry training class will begin this spring. If you would like to participate in this training and in this ministry, Continue Reading...Stephen Ministry
“Lord, let my words be yours, and speak the loving care of Christ through me.” Do you know someone who could use some support and encouraging words? Perhaps even you could use some encouragement! Our congregation is blessed to have Stephen Ministers who offer one-to-one Christian caring support as we face life’s challenges. You don’t ever have to Continue Reading...
