Frequently Asked Questions
Why the name Stephen?
In the book of Acts, Stephen was chosen to provide caring ministry to those in need. Since the time of the Apostles, caring ministry has been considered a hallmark of the Christian faith community.
What are Stephen Ministers?
Stephen Ministers are laypeople trained to provide one-to-one Christ-centered care. They have compassionate hearts for those who are hurting, and they’ve been equipped with caring ministry skills by their congregations’ Stephen Leaders. A Stephen Minister typically has one care receiver at a time and meets with that person once a week to listen, care, pray, encourage, and offer emotional and spiritual support.
In what kinds of situations do Stephen Ministers provide care?
Stephen Ministry is appropriate for people experiencing grief, divorce, cancer, hospitalization, physical rehabilitation, long-term care, chronic illness, terminal illness, job loss, loss of a home, military deployment, the onset of a disability, loneliness, spiritual crisis, or other life struggles.
Do Stephen Ministers care for people outside a congregation?
Stephen Ministers often provide care for people in the broader community, enhancing and expanding a congregation’s outreach in a powerful way.
How does Stephen Ministry benefit pastors?
Pastors tell us that Stephen Ministry supports pastors by deepening, expanding, and extending the care giving capacity of their congregations. A team of Stephen Ministers, together with a pastor, can provide ongoing care to more peoplethan the pastor could provide alone. This also frees pastors to invest more time in other important ministry areas.
What does the Stephen Ministry logo mean?
The Stephen Ministry logo represents a care receiver’s journey from brokenness toward wholeness through the cross of Jesus. In this way, it illustrates “Christ caring for people through people,” which is the Stephen Ministry motto.
Who do I contact to answer my personal questions about Stephen Ministry?
Our Stephen Leaders at Christ Episcopal Church: Libby Smith, 303-944-6630, email: libby@a4s.com; Dennis Smith, 303-944-6629, email: dennis@a4s.com; or Fr. Brian Winters, 303-688-5185, email: fatherbrian@christsepiscopalchurch.com.