"To reach all people with the Good News that Jesus Christ died for our sins to give us eternal life."
Stephen Ministry At Epworth Information
Here at Epworth, we are diligent in finding the best people for the this delicate ministry. Since Stephen Ministers will be working with people who are going through very emotional, difficult times, we want to be sure that the Stephen Minister’s themselves are in a good place spiritually and emotionally. It could be disastrous if a Stephen Minister is currently going through a tough time.
There is a very important difference between the Stephen Ministry relationship and a normal friendship. A normal friendship is a two way street where both parties are free to discuss their troubles and joys in a back and forth manner. In the Stephen Ministry care giving relationship, it is a one way street. Only the care receiver should share about their troubles and triumphs. The Stephen Minister’s job is to listen and encourage. It’s much harder to put the focus on others when you have your own painful needs as well.
In addition , we do inquire about criminal background as well. All this is to assure that the ministry succeeds for the long haul--with the help of God!
About Stephen Ministries
Stephen Ministries is a trans-denominational Christian education organization that provides high quality training and resources to strengthen and expand lay ministry in congregations. The mission of Stephen Ministries is to help congregations equip God's people for spiritual growth and Christ-centered, practical ministry in today's world. Since 1975, the 50-person staff of Stephen Ministries St. Louis has developed training and resources characterized by excellence, practicality, psychological integrity, and theological depth. Stephen Ministries offers courses and ministry systems to fit the needs of every Christian congregation and adult education ministry.