Stephen Ministry 

What is Stephen Ministry?

  • One-on-one ministry by a trained, caring friend
  • Confidential, Christian caregiving
  • A vital part of the total healing ministry of Christ’s body, the Church

 

What is a Stephen Minister?

A Stephen Minister is:

  • A child of God who walks beside a hurting person
  • A caring Christian friend who really listens
  • A lay person who has received fifty hours of training in order to offer distinctively Christian care

Who is helped by Stephen Ministry?

Anyone who is:

  • Needing someone to talk to
  • Struggling with their faith in God
  • Discouraged, anxious, lonely
  • Coping with divorce, job loss, illness, or grief
  • Going through transition

What are the basics of Stephen Ministry at FUMC?

  • Both men and women are trained as Stephen Ministers.
  • They visit their care receivers regularly and dependably.
  • They listen and offer Christian support and encouragement.
  • They are committed to preserving the confidential nature of the caring relationship.
  • Anyone can receive care from Stephen Ministry regardless of church membership.

What other services are provided by Stephen Ministry?

  • Grief Recovery packets
  • Weekly prayer request notes
  • Fall and Spring Grief Recovery workshops
  • The annual Blue Christmas/Longest Night service

How long has Stephen Ministry been at FUMC?

FUMC’s Stephen Ministry began in January 2005.

How does someone receive care through Stephen Ministry or train to become a Stephen Minister?

For any questions regarding Stephen Ministry please call David Hollis at 422-4002 or e-mail dhollis@jacksonfumc.org

Stephen Leaders at FUMC are:

  • Jim Holmes
  • Cecil Kirk
  • Tharon Kirk
  • Debra Owen
  • Andrea Woods
  • David Eblen
  • David Hollis