WHAT IS STEPHEN MINISTRY?
    * It is a one-to-one ministry by trained, caring laypersons.
    * It is a long-term helping relationship focusing on the unique needs of each person.
    * It is a commitment to caring and supporting one another, to build a Christ-centered, sharing community.
    * It is a response to Christ’s instructions…“to love one another as I have loved you.”
    * It is a ministry named after St. Stephen, the first deacon in the early church, commissioned by the apostles to care for the community needs.

WHAT DO STEPHEN MINISTERS DO?
Stephen Ministers are laypersons specifically equipped through the 50-hour Stephen Ministry Series Training Program for a ministry of one-to-one caring support.  Stephen Ministry is mainly about relationships.  Competent and caring, the Stephen Minister offers a unique blend of Christian friendship, objectivity and availability to any person facing personal crisis or life changes.

WHAT TYPES OF SITUATIONS CAN STEPHEN MINISTERS PROVIDE SUPPORT?
Hospital and follow-up   
Loss of a loved one
Terminally ill person and family
Convalescence
Retirement
Changes associated with aging      
Separation/divorce
Job loss
Challenges of single parenting
Birth of a child
Homebound persons
Significant financial setback
Struggles of faith
Loneliness
Transition to nursing home life

HOW LONG WILL A STEPHEN MINISTER WORK WITH AN INDIVIDUAL WHO REQUESTS SUPPORT?
As long as needed – a matter of weeks, months, a year or longer.

IS THERE ANY COST TO ME?
No cost is involved.

HOW CONFIDENTIAL WOULD A STEPHEN RELATIONSHIP BE?
Completely.  Your Stephen Minister is trained to keep all aspects of the support relationship in confidence, including names and all other details.  For a Stephen Minister, contact Pastor Bryan Wenger or one of the Stephen Leaders. 

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