Resources & Updates

What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is a non-denominational Christian ministry that emphasizes our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as its keystone. Named after the first Christian martyr, Stephen, who was stoned to death for spreading the Gospel, this ministry embodies the Great Commission of Christ.

How Does Stephen Ministry Work?

For several years, Stephen Ministry has been a vital part of our congregational service at First Presbyterian Church (FPC). A volunteer caregiver, known as a Stephen Minister, is matched with a congregation member in need of support. Whether it’s providing companionship, offering prayer during ill health, or supporting someone through challenging family relationships, Stephen Ministers are there to help.

Stephen Ministers serve based on gender—women ministers care for women, and men ministers care for men. This ministry deeply values confidentiality; the identities of care receivers are never disclosed. Stephen Ministers don’t solve problems but instead offer listening, friendship, support, and knowledge of available resources. Typically, a Stephen Minister meets with their care receiver once a week.

How Does a Stephen Minister Help?

Stephen Ministers are not:

• Counselors or therapists
• Ordained pastors
• Problem solvers

Stephen Ministers are:

• Good listeners
• Non-judgmental
• Confidential
• Reliable Christian friends

Benefits of Having a Stephen Minister:

• Learn positive attitudes, healthy expectations, and a realistic self-image
• Develop stronger ties with a caring Christian community
• Understand the role of suffering in life
• Accept and bestow forgiveness and grace
• Start or strengthen a relationship with God

Stephen Ministers provide Christian support for as long as it’s needed, offering regular visits (usually an hour each week), listening, prayer, and referrals if necessary.

Confidentiality is Paramount

Stephen Ministry ensures that the identity and details of the caring relationship remain private. Allow a Stephen Minister to walk with you on your path to wholeness.

To request a Stephen Minister: Contact Rev. Scott Simpson at 210-226-0215 ext 212.

Considering Becoming a Stephen Minister?

Kenneth Haugk, founder of Stephen Ministries, reminds us: “Your presence is worth much, much more than words. Your presence communicates to the other that they are valued, precious, and beloved. Your presence brings not only the gift of yourself into the relationship, but also, in and through you, the gift of God.”

If you feel called to serve Christ through this ministry, here’s what you need to know:

**What to Expect:**

• Training takes 20 weeks (50 hours of instruction) led by Rev. Scott Simpson and Rev. Dr. Joe Moore.
•  Recorded sessions are available for make-up on YouTube.

**Training Topics Include:**

• Feelings: Yours, Mine, and Ours
• Listening: The Art and the Practice
• Process versus Results
• Assertiveness: Relating Gently and Firmly
• Maintaining Boundaries
• Crisis Theory and Practice
• Confidentiality
• Experiencing Grief
• Dealing with Depression

Apply for the Course:

Since 1975, over 600,000 people have been trained as Stephen Ministers, impacting countless lives and experiencing profound personal and spiritual growth. If you’re ready to answer this call, contact Rev. Scott Simpson at the church office.

Contact Rev. Scott Simpson at 210-226-0215 ext 212.