send updates or additions
for website

Question:

How much of my time will it really involve?

Answer:

Stephen Ministry is a two year commitment of service. Training to become an Stephen minister involves 50 hours of class time, including two retreats (One "on-site" Fri/Sat, and one overnight retreat) The involvement as a Stephen Minister will include one visit (approx. 1-1/12 hour) per week with the Care Receiver you are assigned. You will also be expected to attend support/supervision meetings and ongoing continuing education opportunities twice a month.

 

Question:

How much money will this cost?

Answer:

There is a $50.00 fee to help partially pay for materials, which include Stephen Ministry manuals, books, and literature. Scholarships are available. During training each participant will have opportunity to provide snacks for one night. Some expense may be incurred for the retreat.

Question:

Will I have to spend money on the person for whom I am caring?

Answer:

No. You are not expected to spend any money whatsoever on the care receiver. You are also not regularly expected to personally provide any other needs such as transportation, baby-sitting, etc. As the Caregiver, you may at times assist the person to make contacts in order to arrange for such services.

 

Question:

Will my phone ring constantly?

Answer:

Each Stephen Minister normally works with only one care receiver at a time. Phone calls between visits are usually minimal. The Stephen training will assist you in managing too many phone calls or excessive demands in a loving, assertive manner, if that situation would arise.

Question:

Will our pastor still help and counsel people?

Answer:

Most definitely! Stephen ministers do not replace pastoral counseling, but Stephen Ministry works closely in support of the pastors to provide the extra time and help to people who are in need.

Question:

What if I get in "over my head"? For instance with a person who threatens suicide?

Answer:

Upon referral if there is extreme need in a person's life that requires professional help, the Stephen referral leader will immediately offer professional referrals for that person rather than assign a Stephen minister. However, occasionally, during the course of a care-giving relationship, severe needs arise. Stephen training helps you know exactly when and how to request professional help for your Care Receiver. Dealing with possible suicide situations is included in the training. The ongoing support group, the Stephen Leader, and the pastor are also there to help you as needed. Again, remember, you are not alone in your care-giving relationship. There is constant support from your leaders and the pastors and from regular supervision meetings.

Question:

How will I personally benefit from this experience?

Answer:

As a follower of Jesus, your ministry to others is an offering to God of loving one another as He has loved us. You will be blessed as you bless others. In addition, you will learn many skills that will be invaluable in your personal life as well as to you as a Stephen Minister.

Question:

Who will be the care receivers?

Answer:

Members of this congregation who are experiencing times of special need and also other people within our community who may turn to us for help. Thus, Stephen Ministry is an outreach of Christian care to our own church members and to the community.

Question:

Are other people as scared of this undertaking, as I seem to be?

Answer:

Probably so! Be assured that the training will help to equip you for that which God has called you to do, and our on-going supervision and continuing education will never leave you "alone" in your ministry to others.

Question:

How do I apply to become a Stephen Minister?

Answer:

Fill out the application form and return it to the church office or the Stephen ministry mailbox. You will be contacted by a Stephen leader and will then have opportunity to meet with the Stephen Leader(s) to ask any questions.