Stephen Ministry

The Stephen Ministry responds to Jesus’ command to love one another. The ministers are available to meet with individuals who may be suffering due to things such as loss of a loved one, crisis, or illness. 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. Consider allowing a Stephen Minister to walk with you on your journey to wholeness.

What is Stephen Ministry?

There are times when every one of us experiences difficulties –

• Grieving the Loss of a Loved One
• Job Loss
• Coping with a Chronic or Terminal Illness or Caring for a Family Member
• Disabled or Caring for an Ill or Disabled Family Member
• Divorce or Separation
• Homebound or Institutionalized
• Discouragement or Loneliness
• Hospitalized or Recovering from Hospitalization
• Relocation
• Experiencing a Spiritual Crisis
• Dealing with Aging
• Transitioning into Retirement
• Incarceration
• And Many Other Challenges

God never intended for us to go through these experiences alone.  That’s why God has brought us together as Church – and why we have Stephen Ministry here at St. Peter’s.

Stephen Ministry provides someone to care, to listen, and to share God’s love with you to help you get through the confusion, stress, or loneliness you may be experiencing.

A Stephen Minister will meet with you –privately and confidentially – on a weekly basis for as long as there is a need to listen, care, encourage, support, pray, and remind you of Christ’s presence in your life.

Who Is a Stephen Minister?

A Stephen Minister is …

• A fellow parishioner who has received 50 hours of care giving training to minister to people who are experiencing a crisis, facing a challenge, or simply going through a tough time
• A caring person who really listens
• A person who is ready to focus on your needs
• A trustworthy confidant who will keep everything you say – and even your identity – confidential
• A caring individual who walks beside a hurting person
• Someone, of the same sex as you are, who will faithfully meet with you on a weekly basis for as long as the need persists

A Stephen Minister is NOT …

• A counselor or therapist;
• A problem-solver;
• Someone who runs errands or helps with chores; or
• A casual visitor

Our Stephen Ministers are ready to provide you with the confidential, one-to-one Christian care you need to make it through a crisis or help you through a difficult time.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Gal 6:2

If you’d like to learn more about Stephen Ministry for yourself, a family member, friend, or neighbor, contact one of our Stephen Leaders:

• Shirley Fenton            830-981-9055
• Helena Ryan               830-755-4733
• Jim Morey                   830-537-6103

Coordinator: Jim Morey