Stephen Ministry.
“Christ Caring for People through People”
Stephen ministry provides a caring, non-judgmental and confidential one-to-one relationship between a trained church member and a person experiencing a difficult time or transition in his or her life. At TRUMC, we have compassionate individuals who are trained as Stephen Ministers to help us when we are hurting from the challenges in our lives.
Stephen Ministers are caring Christian friends who accept, encourage, understand, pray for and with people in times of trouble. Our Stephen Ministers are trained and skilled caregivers, and will walk beside you and offer comfort, love and support throughout your crisis and remind you of God’s love, presence, and healing power in your life.
Who might need a Stephen Minister?
We all experience challenges in life—times when we could benefit from the support of a caring Christian friend. Stephen Ministers are ready to provide the emotional and spiritual care needed when we are faced with a crisis, transition or difficulty such as:
loss of a loved one
divorce or separation
hospitalization
loneliness or discouragement
unemployment or job crisis
terminal or chronic illness
aging or retirement
relocation
recovery after an accident or disaster
issues involving birth, adoption,
miscarriage, or infertility
any combination of things that are overwhelming
Having someone to care, to listen, to share God’s love with you can help you get through the confusion, stress, or loneliness you may be experiencing as you face your crisis.
What happens in a Stephen Ministry relationship?
Once you are matched with a same-gender Stephen Minister by one of the Stephen Leaders, you will typically meet for one hour one time a week. Confidentiality is one of the most important principles of Stephen Ministry. The identity of those receiving care and what takes place in each caring relationship remains private. Trust is essential in this relationship.
You are provided with emotional and spiritual support through understanding and encouragement as the Stephen Minister gives stability, hope, biblical principles, and Christ-centered care. The caring relationship lasts as long as your need for care exists.
Contact our TRUMC Stephen Ministry Leaders if you would like more information about being matched with one of our Stephen Ministers:
Patti Crenshaw (864) 380-8421 or Dave McAda (864) 380-5867