WHAT IS STEPHEN MINISTRY? A program that equips lay people to provide one-to-one Christian care for people experiencing difficulties in their lives. The care is confidential, non-judgmental, and Christ-centered.
WHO IS A STEPHEN MINISTER? A caring Christian friend who listens, cares, prays, supports and encourages.
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WHO NEEDS A STEPHEN MINISTER? Anyone - Stephen Ministry is for people facing tough times. We all experience challenges in life, times when we could benefit from the support of a caring Christian. Stephen Ministers are trained to provide the emotional and spiritual care we long for when faced with a crisis or difficulty such as:
• Loss of a loved one
• Illness or hospitalization
• Divorce or separation
• Loneliness or discouragement
• Spiritual crisis
• Unemployment or relocation
• Aging
• Child birth or adoption
• Miscarriage or infertility
• Accident or disaster recovery
YOU ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF STEPHEN MINISTRY. Everyone at Hayes Barton can help care for each other. Be on the lookout for people who may need a Stephen Minister. You know the challenges your friends, covenant group, and Sunday school classmates are facing. Suggest Stephen Ministry to a friend who might need it. Ask permission to confidentially give their name and phone number to Becky Balentine or Pastor Laura Fine Ledford, our Referrals Coordinators. They can contact the person and talk more about the details of Stephen Ministry and whether SM is appropriate for their situation.
INTERESTED IN HAVING A STEPHEN MINISTER OR IN BECOMING A STEPHEN MINISTER? Email Becky Balentine or Pastor Laura.