Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry is a program through which members of Highland Hope UMC are trained to provide Christian caregiving to members and friends of our congregation who are struggling with such issues as grief, loneliness, terminal illness, or a crisis in job, marriage, or family. Those receiving care from Stephen Ministers benefit because they receive prayer and support throughou
t the crisis they face. Stephen Ministers benefit through the spiritual growth they experience from being involved in meaningful ministry. Our pastor benefits because caring ministry at Highland Hope is expanded, allowing fewer people to slip through the cracks.
How to Become a Care Receiver
Do you need some extra support and care? Are you going through a time of struggle, confusion or despair? You might be experiencing a time of loss, loneliness, or the scariness of a new or difficult situation. Maybe it would be helpful to have someone walk and talk with you during this time in your life. A Care Receiver is a person who benefits from the listening ears and encouraging heart of a Stephen Minister. If you would like to have a Stephen Minister meet with you, please contact one of our Stephen Leaders – Tami Buchwalter at 618-920-8673, Jeri Christian at 618-979-3352, or Tim Wynne at 618-973-6728.
Referral
You can refer y ourself, a friend, neighbor, relative or anyone else you know who is going through a difficult time so that special care can be given when it is needed the most. Just remember if you are referring someone else, obtain their permission before you give their name. Contact Tami, Jeri, or Tim and a follow-up contact will be made.
How To Become a Stephen Minister
A Stephen Minister is a caring Christian lay person who, on a one-to-one basis, listens, understands, accepts, and prays for and with a care receiver who is working through a crisis or tough time. A potential Stephen Minister will receive 50 hours of training, continue to meet twice a month for supervision and continuing education and make an initial commitment of two years. After training, the Stephen Minister will meet with an assigned care receiver an average of one hour per week. If you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, please speak to any of our Stephen Leaders or Stephen Ministers.
Links to Stephen Ministry Information:
Learn about Leader’s Training Courses
Stories, News, and Congregation Snapshots about Stephen Ministry
Receive a Free Packet of Information about Stephen Ministry
Download Free Resources about Stephen Ministry
Begin Stephen Ministry in Your Congregation
Attend an Introductory Workshop about Stephen Ministry