Stephen Ministers are lay people trained to provide care for those who are experiencing specific problems in living their lives. They have undergone extensive training to develop and nurture their caring skills.
Stephen Ministers study such topics as effective listening, telecare, stress of hospitalization, and ministering to persons undergoing such life crises as divorce, death of a loved one, aging, depression, terminal illness, and disabilities.
Stephen Ministry is…
Grounded in Jesus’ command to love one another.
Not a counselor or therapist; not a problem solver; not someone with just a casual interest in your situation.
A child of God who walks beside you; a caring Christian friend who really listens.
A lay person who has received training in how to provide distinctively Christian care.
Having or becoming a Stephen Minister:
Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry. Stephen Ministers do not share any information about the persons in their care. All conversations between Stephen Ministers and care receivers are kept confidential. If you need a Stephen Minister or would like more information about becoming a Stephen Minister, please reach out to Leah Salinas by email or phone at 512.472.3111.
Stephen Ministries is a non-profit Christian educational organization located in St. Louis, Missouri that supports the Stephen Ministry at TUMC Austin. Established in 1975, Stephen Ministries offers training and resources to numerous congregations and organizations worldwide. Learn more here.