What does it take to become a Stephen Minister?
Okay, admit it. Stephen Ministry has crossed your mind a few times. You might even have picked up a brochure or talked with your pastor about it.. But now you want to take a closer look at the idea of becoming a Stephen Minister. You’re wondering: Is this right for me? Following are some guidelines that might help you in your decision making.
Gifts - A Stephen Minister is a person with the gift of mercy, who shows compassion and gives encouragement to and intercedes for those he or she cares for. Many Stephen Ministers say that they receive much more from the caring relationship with their care receiver than they give.
Commitment - A Stephen Minister devotes time, energy, and resources to this ministry. In return, a Stephen Minister has the chance to participate in meaningful ministry, make a major difference in another person’s life, and grow as a joyous child of God.
Training - A Stephen Minister completes 50 hours of training before ever meeting with a care receiver. He or she learns about listening, assertiveness, confidentiality, and many other aspects of care giving. After completing the initial training, there is continuing education. Stephen Ministers find that their relationships become richer and deeper at home, church, at work and with friends.
Dedicated Service - A Stephen Minister serves wholeheartedly. This isn’t a casual ministry. It involves prayer, thought, consideration, study, and commitment. In return, the Stephen Minister receives grateful thanks from his or her care receiver, our Stephen Leaders, the congregation, and our Lord.
Accountability - A Stephen Minister is accountable to God, the congregation, the Stephen Leaders, the other Stephen Ministers, and the care receiver. In return, he or she receives support, encouragement, and guidance in Small Group Peer Supervision.
Continuous Learning - A Stephen Minister is open to adjusting and adapting his or her care giving to fit the needs of the care receiver. He or she learns more about care giving at each meeting with a care receiver and at each supervision session. Stephen Ministry is an experience of continuous learning, growth, and joy.
The Holy Spirit may be calling you to the joy, commitment, growth, meaning, training, service, and care of being a Stephen Minister. Pray for God’s guidance as you consider this opportunity.
For more information, contact Rev. George Roberts.
