Stephen Ministry
Equipping and supporting Christ's followers to be a caring community.
Stephen Ministry is the one-to-one lay caring ministry that takes place in congregations that use the Stephen Series system, congregations like Emmanuel. Stephen Ministry congregations equip and empower lay caregivers—called Stephen Ministers—to provide high-quality, confidential, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting.
Are you facing tough times? Do you know someone who is experiencing a difficult time in life or a challenging transition? Our congregation has a group of people skilled in caring for those facing challenges in their lives. These people are called Stephen Ministers. They offer confidential Christ-like care to those in need.
Stephen Ministers are not pastors or counselors, but they have undergone extensive training to develop and nurture their caring skills. They are trained to listen, care, pray, encourage and support people who are hurting – congregation members and non-members alike.
Stephen Ministers care for people facing difficulties such as:
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Loss of a loved one
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Hospitalization
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Divorce or separation
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Loneliness or discouragement
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Spiritual crisis
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Unemployment or a job crisis
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A terminal illness
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Incarceration
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Aging
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Birth, adoption, miscarriage, or infertility
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A chronic illness
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Relocation
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Recovery after an accident or disaster
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And many more
God's love in action
"Bear one another's burdens and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ"
Galatians 6:2
"Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up"
1 Thessalonians 5:11
"Love one another -
as I have loved you"
John 13:24
Stephen Ministers at Emmanuel Christian Reformed Church are here for you. God does not expect you to bear your burdens alone. Could you benefit from the support of one of these caring, Christian friends?
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister,
contact: stephenministry@emmanuelcrc.org
Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry: those receiving care can be sure that their identity and what goes on in the caring relationship will remain private.
Visit the Stephen Ministries website for more information on this ministry. www.stephenministries.org