Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church

Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry Questions and Answers

What is the Stephen Ministry Program?

The function of the Stephen Ministry program is to provide confidential Christian one-on-one care to individuals experiencing a variety of life needs. Sometimes life just gets in the way and someone may need a caring person to walk side-by-side with them through a difficult time. Stephen Ministers are equipped to provide this support. They receive training so that they can approach those in need with Christian love, caring, and insight. The motto of Stephen Ministry is “Christ Caring for People Through People.”

Who are Stephen Ministers?

Stephen Ministers are laypeople who are trained, commissioned and supervised to provide confidential one-on-one Christian care to persons in need. They make a two year commitment to serve in this capacity.

What type of training do Stephen Ministers receive?

Stephen Ministers receive 50 hours of extensive training in providing emotional and spiritual care. This training includes a range of topics from perfecting listening skills, how to deal with feelings, and how to help in times of crisis.

What type of situations would Stephen Ministers be involved in?

Stephen Ministers are prepared to provide emotional and spiritual care to individuals facing a variety of life challenges. People who are experiencing grief, divorce, illness, loss of a job, or loneliness could benefit from the caring support of a Stephen Minister.

Do Stephen Ministers replace pastoral counseling?

Pastors state that the Stephen Ministry program broadens the caregiving capacity of their congregations. At Pleasant Hill the Stephen Ministry program is an extension of pastoral care. A person may start with Pastor Bob Jack and then work with a Stephen Minister if care is needed on a long-term basis.

What do I do if I feel someone I know could benefit from having a Stephen Minister?

Before contacting the pastor, Bob Jack, or the Stephen Ministry Referral Coordinator, please let the person you have in mind know, that because you care about them, you would like to have their permission to submit their name. Anne Sink is the Stephen Ministry Referral coordinator. Please contact her at (980) 322-1831.