Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry is a system through which members of First Presbyterian Church are trained and organized to help provide Christian care giving to members of our congregation and community. Jesus says, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:12
Loving and caring for one another is not just the pastor’s job – it’s something Jesus calls us all to do! Stephen Ministry is a ministry in which people with special gifts for caring ministry can put those gifts to use in an organized way, bringing Jesus’ love and care to those who most need it. To learn more about Stephen Ministry, click to visit the national website.
Why Stephen Ministry?
We have many needs for care in our congregation and community: people experiencing divorce, grief, a terminal illness, loss of a job, relocation, an empty nest, retirement, hospitalization, loneliness, and many other stresses and challenges. Often people with needs suffer silently or do not request or receive the level of care they really need. Paul says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
At FPC our Stephen Ministers have been trained and organized to do just that. They provide one-to-one care, prayer, and confidential support to those who are going through a difficult time.
Who are Stephen Ministers?
Stephen Ministers are the “After people.” They are ready to come along side you – or your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or relatives – and provide comfort and support for as long after as needed.
Who should receive a Stephen Minister?
Those who should receive the care of a Stephen Minister are —
- A man like Abraham who had to leave everything he knew and loved behind him and needed someone to journey with him to a new life.
- A woman like Sarah who faced a major change in life at an advanced age and needed someone to listen to both her joy and apprehension.
- A man like Moses who faced great opposition and needed a companion to support him and speak on his behalf.
- A woman like Esther who was faced with a major decision and needed someone who could listen to her concerns and offer encouragement.
- A man like Job who lost everything and needed someone to silently endure his pain with him.
- A woman like Mary of Nazareth who lived with both joys and struggles of having an exceptional child and needed someone to help her sort out the ponderings of her heart.
- A man like Peter who found himself in over his head and needed the strong hand of a faithful friend.
- A woman like Mary Magdalene who received healing from inner turmoil and needed someone to walk with her as she built a new life.
- A man like Jesus who knew intense disappointment, sorrow, grief, rejection, and loneliness and needed an angel of God to minister to him.
- A man or woman like you.
Need a Stephen Minister?
Contact Rev. Christa Brewer 843.448.4496
Become Involved in the Stephen Ministry Program!
Pray for our Stephen Ministers
Help us stay sensitive to those who need caring support
Help make others aware of the support system that is available
Consider God’s direction as to whether you should become a Stephen Minister