Stephen Ministry
One on one Christian care giving. We provide the care, God provides the cure.
Going through a difficult situation such as divorce, separation, death of a loved one, loss of job, hard financial times, hospitalization, or terminal illness? Stephen Minsters are trained to provide one-on-one, confidential, Christian care. You and your Stephen Minister will meet once a week for approximately one hour to talk about what you are going through. Your Stephen Minister will encourage, pray, and listen to you. To receive a Stephen Minister, please call Bruce Becker 722-9029
How Stephen Ministry Began
Stephen Ministry began in 1975 when Rev. Haugk, Ph.D. and clinical psychologist, trained nine people in his St. Louis church to assist him in providing care to people in the church and community. The trained caregivers were so excited about their ministry, they encouraged Dr. Haugk to offer Stephen Ministry (named after the man in Acts 6 who was commissioned to provide care to people in the congregation) to more congregations. Neighborhood Church Redding has 27 Stephen Minister's currently trained to provide care for a care receiver.
How To Become A Stephen Minister
Stephen Leaders recruit people from the congregation once a year and give them 50 hours of training in Christian caregiving. Topics include: listening, feelings, assertiveness, confidentiality, and ministering to people with specific needs.
When Stephen Ministers complete the training, they are linked with a care receiver--someone in need of care--who they meet with an hour each week. Stephen Ministers also meet twice monthly for peer supervision and continuing education.
If you would like to learn more about this caregiving ministry, please contact Bruce Becker at 722.9029.
