Stephen Ministry is a churchwide caring ministry that equips lay persons to provide distinctively Christian, one-to-one care to those who are experiencing all kinds of life needs and circumstances, both in our congregation and community. Stephen Ministers work together with pastors to reach more people with Christian care than pastors can by themselves.
Spiritual Gifts: Encouragement, Faith, Mercy
Passions: People in Crisis
Abilities: Caring/Compassion, Listening/Facilitating, Welcoming/Encouraging
VOLUNTEER INTEREST FORM (for January 2013 training class)
Stephen Ministers are committed Christian people who:
* Express God's care through their lives to others;
* Receive 50 hours of initial training in important caring ministry skills and concepts;
* Are commissioned as Stephen Ministers after completing their initial training;
* Visit another person regularly and dependably, and offer Christian support and care;
* Participate in regular support and supervision under the guidance of trained Stephen Leaders;
* Are committed to preserving the confidential nature of the caring relationship;
* Serve for at least 2 years; and
* Receive continuing education and skill building throughout their years of service.
Contact: Stephen Ministry Hotline, 650.330.7516
Download 2012 Training Schedule
John Ortberg Interview: Amity Haugk – daughter of Stephen Ministry founder Kenneth C. Haugk -- recently visited Menlo Park Presbyterian Church to learn more about Stephen Ministry in Menlo Park. Highlights of her interview with Senior Pastor John Ortberg are available at this link.
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Comments from people who have participated in Stephen Ministry training:
“Stephen Minister training has helped me grow—personally, spiritually, and professionally. I use my Stephen Minister skills all the time with patients, peers, and physicians. Stephen Ministry has made a big difference in my own life and in my congregation.”
Anna, Registered Nurse
“Since becoming a Stephen Minister, I’ve experienced a richness of God’s grace beyond anything I could have imagined. To truly listen with the ears of Christ, to see others through his eyes, to know his heart, to see Jesus working through you to touch the life of someone else is a window into heaven.”
William, Business Owner
“Stephen Ministry has enhanced every relationship I have. Now I can listen and be there without feeling like I must rush in and try to fix things. (My 15-yearold finds this a great blessing!) I’m much more at peace in difficult situations because I realize that it’s not me—but Christ within me—who does the work.”
Susan, Licensed Massage Therapist
“Being a Stephen Minister has taught me to rely on God instead of always trying to fix things. I’ve learned what to say, how to listen, and what to do during a crisis. It’s a great feeling to provide people with the spiritual care and support they need.”
John, Physician
“Stephen Ministry has strengthened my relationship with Christ and helped me in my spiritual journey. I find myself using my Stephen Minister skills in all aspects of my life—as a husband, father, lawyer, friend, and Stephen Minister.”
Peter, Lawyer
“Stephen Ministry has freed me from feeling I needed to have all the answers and solve other people’s problems. Now I just listen and care—and trust God to do the healing. This ministry is a true joy. It has deepened my faith and allowed me to be transformed by our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Patricia, Company Vice President Hilton
Download Stephen Ministry Fact Sheet