OSLC Stephen Ministry

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, 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.

Stephen Ministry helps meet the needs of individuals who are . . .

hospitalized

terminally ill

bereaved

in a job crisis

new members of a church

disabled

homebound

lonely

in a spiritual crisis

looking for a caring, Christian friend

Who are the Stephen Ministers?

Lay persons from our congregation who have developed their gift for bringing the concern and care of Christ’s community to people in need.

People who come from all walks of life, age ranges, and backgrounds.

Caring and sharing Christians offering their help and support to others in the time of need.

Trained Christians officially commissioned to confidential, in-depth caring.

Stephen Ministers are not professional psychologists, social workers, or experts in law, medicine, or church doctrine. They are not superficial “visitors.” Their responsibility is more of a calling.

Am I called to Stephen Ministry?

A great many people in our church community are bearing burdens —and our pastoral staff are available for their support in times of crises. However, the pain, anger and/or depression does not leave with the burial of a loved one, the finalization of a divorce, or the end of a hospital stay. Providing support for persons with these special needs are examples of ways a Stephen Minister can offer assistance to our members and pastoral staff.

How are the Stephen Ministers Trained?

Before beginning their care-giving, Stephen Ministers receive training based solidly on Biblical testimony. Training is actually a course in “Practical Theology.” Some of the topics include: The Art of Listening, How to Use the Bible in Care-Giving, Confidentiality, Ministry to the Dying-Depressed & Older Person, Ministry to the Grieving. Throughout their service, Stephen Ministers receive continuing education.