Stephen Ministers

Sometimes we find ourselves in a season where we are bumping up against something repeatedly but can't quite figure out why we can't move forward. Maybe it's a shift in our job, our relationships, or our self-worth. Whatever breakthrough we are hoping for, it can be so painful when it seems just out of reach.

The Bible makes it abundantly clear that God has good intentions for us!

• John 10:10: "the thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

• Ephesians 4:12: "equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.

Stephen Ministers seek to provide care and support to hurting people for whatever situation they find themselves facing. A Stephen Minister is a steady reminder of God's presence. Most often, God works in ways that blesses both the giver and the receiver.

As Stephen Ministers at St. Catherine’s, we have the opportunity to carry out Christ's commandment to "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12) in a powerful and practical way. The mission of Stephen Ministry is to equip people to use their gifts to serve the church, help people grow in their faith, provide care and support to hurting people, build up the congregation as a caring community, and to reach out to people with the love of Jesus. With this vision in mind, St. Catherine's will be hosting a training session to equip new Stephen Ministers starting in the spring.

Is God prompting you to come and join us in a caring Christian presence, in order to provide emotional and spiritual support to those in our community? If so, email the Stephen Ministry team at stephenministers@stcatherines.org for more information.