BGC Stephen Ministry

We can all use a listening ear when the cares of life knock on our door. That’s why we’re starting Stephen Ministry at Baptist Grove Church—to meet people where they are and walk alongside with them as they journey through their valley experiences. If you feel called to a ministry of presence and are gifted in the area of helping and encouraging, prayerfully consider becoming a Stephen Minister! 

What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is a caregiving ministry that trains and organizes laypeople in our congregation to provide quality confidential, one-on-one Christian care to those experiencing life challenges. Those in need of support are matched with a competent and caring Stephen Minister. 

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What is a Stephen Minister and what do they do?

A Stephen Ministers are trained laity who walk alongside a hurting person to provide one-to-one, emotional and spiritual care—listening, empathizing, encouraging, helping process feelings associated with divorce, terminal illness, childbirth, and other life transitions. He or she has a compassionate heart for those who are hurting, and they are equipped with caring ministry skills by their congregation’s Stephen Leaders. A Stephen Minister typically has one care receiver at a time and meets with that person once a week to listen, care, pray, encourage, and offer emotional and spiritual support. Serving in this role is a great opportunity to put your spiritual gifts into action and be a supportive presence to those in our congregation and community who are facing difficulties. 

Stephen Ministers can meet with their care receiver in person, via phone, or video chat as both parties are comfortable. 

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I’m interested! Tell me how to become a Stephen Minister.

Take your first step towards becoming a Stephen Minister by completing the Stephen Minister application HERE!

A Stephen Ministry team member will follow up with you for an interview and next steps. No formal training? No problem! We train you! We provide 50 hours of training in Christian caregiving on topics such as listening, assertiveness, and ministering to people in specific situations such as cancer, grief, and loss. Plus, you will always have support from your team and leadership as you care for others. Check out the experience of members like you, bringing hope and life through their involvement with Stephen Ministry HERE! 

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Got questions? Send an email to [email protected].

Spiritual Gifts that align with this ministry are listed below. You may have one or more of these gifts which may contribute to your being a good addition to the team.

Encouragement – The capacity to encourage others, in groups and individually, with understanding, sympathy, and positive guidance
Helps –  The ability and overwhelming desire to aid persons in need
Mentoring – The ability to affirm, to equip, and to support other Christians in spiritual formation and Christian ministry
Prayer – The ability to sense whom and for what to pray