Stephen Ministry

 

Being a Stephen Ministry Congregation makes TRUMC a richer community. Not in a material way, but in a spiritual way. Those receiving care from a Stephen Minister are richer because they have a new friend who prays for and with them and supports them through the life circumstances they are facing. Stephen Ministers are richer because of the spiritual growth they experience by being involved in this meaningful ministry. Our pastors are richer because they have more time, our caring ministry is expanded, and fewer people slip through the cracks. The entire church is richer because special care is available to us if we need it. You also have a place where you can refer a friend, relative, neighbor or co-worker who might be experiencing a difficult time so that they can receive special care when they need it most.

 

Stephen Ministers have participated in 50 hours of training and are well prepared to give distinctively Christian care-giving to those who need it. Stephen Ministers are not licensed therapists, but will walk beside anyone who needs more than a casual friend but not a licensed counselor. Those receiving care are paired with a Stephen Minister of the same gender and the relationship is held in the highest confidence.

 

A Stephen Minister in Houston, Texas coined the phrase “Stephen Ministers are ‘After People.’ Stephen Ministers are there…

…after you’ve washed and returned the last casserole dish

…after the divorce papers have been served and the bottom falls out of your life

…after the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away – and the house suddenly seems incredibly empty

…after you arrive home following the funeral service and the emotions you’ve held at bay come crashing in on you

…after the relationship has ended but the wounds are still bleeding and painful

…after the doctors have said, “There’s nothing more we can do”

…after the door has slammed for the very last time

…after the phone call you’d always hoped you’d never get

…after you realize the hands on the gold watch you received at your retirement party move more slowly than you ever imagined

…after the nursing home director shakes your hand and says, “Welcome to your new home”

…after the gavel goes down, the handcuffs go on, and your loves one is led away

…after the baby has arrived, putting more demands on you then you ever dreamed possible

…after you find the pink slip in what is now your final paycheck

…after your family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out

Stephen Ministers are the ‘After People.’ We are ready to come alongside you – or your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or relatives – and provide comfort and support for as long ‘after’ as we are needed.”

 

If you or someone you know would like more information on receiving care or participating in the training required to give this type of special care, please contact the church office at 803-254-6695.