Stephen Ministry is a program of Asbury that equips lay persons to provide distinctively Christian one-to-one care to those who are experiencing all kinds of life needs and circumstances, both in our congregation and community.

Stephen Ministers are committed Christian people who:

  • express God's care through their lives to others;
  • receive 50 hours of initial training in important caring ministry skills and concepts;
  • are commissioned as Stephen Ministers after completing their initial training;
  • visit another person in regularly and dependably and offer Christian support and care;
  • participate in regular support and supervision under the guidance of trained Stephen Leaders;
  • are committed to preserving the confidential nature of the caring relationship;
  • service for at least two years;
  • receive continuing education and skill building throughout their years of service.

"Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ." - Galatians 6:2

Meets the Needs of People

There are times when each of us needs the care of another person, a Christian friend, a Stephen Minister! These needs include but are not limited to:

  • the hospitalized
  • the terminally ill and their families
  • people who move into or out of our community
  • those grieving a death or serious loss
  • the homebound and institutionalized
  • prisoners, ex-offenders and their families
  • those with a job crisis
  • the aging and elderly
  • those with disabilities and their families
  • those needing the support of a Christian friend
  • those facing life transitions
  • the separated or divorced
  • households experiencing birth or adoption
  • those in spiritual crisis

Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry: those receiving care can be sure that their identity and what goes on in the caring relationship will remain private.

Contact Us
Let us know if you need a Stephen Minister, or are interested in becoming one

 

Pastor Trudy Paul
Please contact Rev. Trudy Paul if you feel you need a Stephen Minister, or would like more information on how to become one. A new class of Stephen Ministers will be trained in January 2024.

 

Email Pastor Trudy