An Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Northwest Texas

Stephen Ministries

. . .As I have loved you, so you must love one another." (NIV) John 13:34

When Jesus calls us to be his disciples, he also makes us members of his Body, the Church. We are called to do the work of God in the world (1 Corinthians 12)

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 guidance of trained Stephen Leaders;

• are committed to preserving the confidential nature of the caring relationship;

• serve for at least two years;

• receive continuing education and skill building throughout their years of service.

What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is grounded in Jesus' command to love one another. Through one-to-one caring relationships, those who are hurting receive the love and care they need to support them.

• Is life more than you can handle alone right now?

• Are your health, your attitude, or your relationships suffering?

• Are you adjusting to a new job, a change in marital status, a serious illness, the death of a loved one, a recent move?

• Would you like to have someone in your life who really cares?

Everyone goes through difficult times. having someone to care, to listen, to share God's love with you can help you get through the confusion, stress, or loneliness you may be experiencing.

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.

A Stephen Minister is not...

• A counselor or therapist.

• A problem-solver.

• A casual visitor.