Adult Ministries Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry is a relatively new ministry to our church. In January 2009, we celebrated the first anniversary of the commissioning of our first class of Stephen Ministers. As with any new ministry there may be some questions you have, such as who we are, what we do, and how to establish a care receiver relationship. You may even want to become a Stephen Minister. Hopefully you will find that information here!
We need your help in identifying people who may benefit from a Stephen Ministry relationship. If you see a friend, coworker, neighbor, relative, or someone else who could use some extra Christian care, tell that person about our Stephen Ministry and get permission to refer him or her to a Stephen Leader. We also appreciate prayers offered on behalf of our care givers and care receivers.
What Is a Stephen Minister?
A Stephen Minister is ...
• A child of God who walks beside a hurting person;
• a caring Christian who really listens;
• A member of our congregation who has received 50 hours of training in how to provide distinctively Christian care;
• A person who is ready to focus on your needs;
• A trustworthy confidant who will keep everything you say—and even your identity—confidential; and
• Someone who will faithfully meet with you on a weekly basis for as long as your need persists.
What do Stephen Ministers do?
Our Stephen Ministers provide confidential, one-to-one Christian care to people who are:
• Grieving the death of a loved one
• Hospitalized or recovering from hospitalization
• Lonely or discouraged
• Coping with a terminal illness or caring for a family member with a terminal illness
• Unemployed or in a job crisis
• Disabled or caring for an ill or disabled family member
• Moving or relocating
• New to the congregation or the community
• Anticipating the birth or adoption of a child
• Homebound or institutionalized
• Transitioning into retirement
• Dealing with the crisis of aging
• Facing a life transition
• Experiencing a spiritual crisis
• Victims of a disaster or accident
And for people facing countless other crises or life challenges or who are going through a difficult time and
could benefit from the care of a supportive Christian friend.
Why should we have a Stephen Ministry?
Because the Bible tells us to:
“Love one another as I have loved you.” (John 15:12)
“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
“Encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11a)
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” (Romans 12:15)
“Serve one another in love.” (Galatians 5:13)
“Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers and sisters, be compassionate and humble.” (1 Peter 3:8)
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
I know someone who needs a Stephen Minister... how do I arrange a care giving relationship?
You may contact any Stephen Minister or Stephen Leader to discuss a possible care giving relationship. This person can assist you in understanding wht a Stephen Ministry relationship is like. Then encourage your friend to seek assistance. Ultimately, it will require the person needing care to contact Rev. Kevin Wilson, referral coordinator, and scheduling a visit.
How can I become a Stephen Minister?
We always welcome members who desire to become Stephen Ministers. As Stephen Ministers, we are well-trained lay persons supervised by other lay persons. We receive 50 hours of instructor-led training, participate in additional on-going supervision, and make a commitment for two years to train and serve FUMC Waxahachie and the community. If you are interested in joining the next class, contact one of our Stephen Leaders.
Contact
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for information and opportunities.
