Are you going through a difficult time? Do you need encouragement and support?
Trained lay ministers from our church are here for you!
A Stephen Minister will provide individual care for those who are experiencing life’s normal spiritual or emotional difficulties such as grief and loss, illness, marriage challenges, job situations, unexpected pregnancies, life transitions, and many other challenges.
Stephen Ministers are supportive, encouraging, compassionate, and confidential. You are not meant to walk alone as you deal during painful times and we are here to walk beside you.
Would you like to meet with a Stephen Minister? Please send an email to stephen@midlandfree.org.
Having a Stephen Minister walk alongside me has been integral to my health these past few years. Honestly, having a Stephen Minister throughout the pandemic was the best decision I could have made for my mental health and wellbeing. It still impresses me when God sets up support mechanisms for me in anticipation of upcoming storms. His timing is perfect and in retrospect, it is easy to see him walking the path before me. During this time, no burden was too great or too small for my Stephen Minister. She listened to anything and everything. She made me feel seen and known. This world can be a lonely place, and it was for me while working from home during such an extended time. I am so grateful for her listening ear and her encouragement along the way. She definitely helped me to refresh my perspective to be more aligned with God’s truths and opened my eyes to blessings I didn’t know were there. I knew I could always count on her to petition the throne on my behalf. I don’t doubt that her role as my prayer warrior has played an integral part in my growth in the Lord during this season. A Stephen Minister is there to listen and help you figure out things for yourself. Of course, this requires commitment by both parties and the willingness to hear hard truths from God’s Word. And while it’s up to you to interpret and apply them to your life, the Stephen Minister is there to help you process, get clarification on scripture, and most importantly, pray.
Stephen Ministry Testimony (January 2023)
Stephen Ministry Training
We periodically offer a Stephen Ministry training for those involved in a caring type of ministry, or for those who want to become a Stephen Minister.
This training benefits anyone who cares for others including parents, teachers, health-care workers, community agencies, or other professionals who work one-on-one with others. This training is required for those who are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister.
Aspects of the training:
- You will learn principles and skills that equip you to provide high-quality, Christ-centered emotional and spiritual care to others.
- You will gain insight into the thoughts, feelings, and actions of people who are hurting.
- You will develop relational and caring skills you can apply to all aspects of your life.
- You will deepen your faith as the Holy Spirit fashions you into a Christ-centered caregiver.
To inquire about becoming a Stephen Minister, or to apply for a scholarship, please contact Nancy at stephen@midlandfree.org.