STEPHEN MINISTRY
Stephen Ministry is a one-to-one lay caring ministry that is grounded in a biblical understanding of Jesus, His church, and His ministry. It helps those who have normal coping skills but need someone to walk alongside them in faith and prayer during times when they are overwhelmed, such as loss of a loved one, loss of a job, becoming an “empty nester,” moving to a new location, coping with a chronic or terminal illness, or other stressful situations.
FAQS
Who can serve as a Stephen Minister?
- Stephen Ministers are members of the congregation who have been trained by Stephen Leaders to offer high-quality, one-to-one Christian care to people going through tough times. Lay people trained by Canton First Methodist Church (CFMC) leadership are the active Stephen Ministers at CFMC. Our Stephen Ministers are involved in peer supervision and ongoing study together.
What type of training do Stephen Ministers receive?
- Our Stephen Ministers have receive 50 hours of training in caring for people who are experiencing a wide range of difficult situations. The Stephen Minister you’ll be matched with is very well-equipped to care for and support you.
I’m willing to speak with a Stephen Minister, but isn’t this type of ministry the pastor’s job?
- Our pastors care about you and will visit with you as you need them. Along with your pastor’s care, your Stephen Minister will be available to focus on caring for you. We as Christians are called to care for one another, and this program enlarges our pastoral care ministry.
How often and how long will I meet with the Stephen Minister?
- A Stephen Minister usually provides care to one person at a time, meeting with that person once a week for about an hour. Your Stephen Minister will continue to meet with you as long as needed. You will decide together when you’re ready to bring the caring relationship to a close.
Will I feel better if I have a Stephen Minister?
- Every person and situation is different, but most people we work with say that having a Stephen Minister is a helpful, comforting, and a healing experience.
Is Stephen Ministry confidential? I'd prefer to keep my struggle private and I am not sure Stephen Ministry is what I need.
- Stephen Ministry is completely confidential. No one will even know you have a Stephen Minister unless you tell them.
If I am interested in Stephen Ministry, who can help me?
- Call Susan Brown, Minister of Congregational Care at 770-721-5225 or e-mail .
For more information about the Stephen Ministries organization, click here to visit their website.