Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministers: The After People

 

People often ask, “What exactly is a Stephen Minister?”  Stephen Ministers are:

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• members of the congregation that have received 50 hours of training in providing emotional and spiritual care. 

• their role is to listen, care, pray and encourage.

 

One way to put it is that Stephen Ministers are the After People.

Stephen Ministers are there:

… after  the phone call you hoped you would never get.

… after  the funeral, when everyone has left and the emotions you held at bay come crashing in on you.

… after  the doctor says, “I am sorry, but there’s nothing more we can do."

… after  the nursing home director shakes your hand and says, “Welcome to your new home.”

… after  the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away – and the house is suddenly empty.

… after  the last child you find the pink slip with your final paycheck.

… after  your family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out.

… they are ready to come alongside you – your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or relatives – and provide comfort and support for as long after as needed.