What Is Stephen Ministry?

Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2, NRSV).

Stephen Ministry offers a proven and effective way to organize, equip, and supervise a team of congregation members—called Stephen Ministers—to provide high-quality, one-to-one, Christ-centered care to people in the congregation and the community experiencing life difficulties.

Stephen Ministers are congregation members trained by their Stephen Leaders to offer care to people who are hurting. A Stephen Minister typically has one care receiver at a time and meets with that person once a week for about an hour. 

Care receivers are individuals in the congregation or community who are going through a crisis or life difficulty. The caring relationship lasts for as long as the need persists.

The Blessings of Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry multiplies blessings throughout the church and community.

• Congregations carry out Christ’s commandment to “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12 RSV) in a powerful and practical way.
• Pastors have a team of gifted, trained, and committed lay caregivers ready to minister to hurting people.
• Laypeople nurture and use their gifts in meaningful ministry, growing spiritually as they serve others.
• People who are hurting have a caring Christian presence to provide emotional and spiritual support.

In short, Stephen Ministry helps carry out the mission of the church.

If you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, would like to meet with a Stephen Minister or have questions about Stephen Ministries at First Church, contact