What is Stephen Ministry?
This is a one-on-one, confidential care ministry where a trained Stephen Minister will walk alongside you—offering a listening ear, a caring heart, and spiritual encouragement. They’re not there to fix you or preach at you, but to be a steady, compassionate presence as you process what you're going through.
You don’t have to carry your burdens alone. Whether your pain is fresh or something you've been holding onto for a while, Stephen Ministry is a safe place to begin healing.
What to Expect:
- A confidential, judgment-free space
- One-on-one meetings with a trained caregiver, as many times as you need.
- Support that’s grounded in faith, hope, and compassion
- Encouragement to help you focus on your needs and next steps
Please join our Stephen Leaders for our upcoming Informational Session on December 2, 2025 from 5-6 pm in Room D201.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Stephen Minister, and what do they do?
Stephen Ministers are lay caregivers. They have engaged in high-quality training in Christian caregiving, including topics such as listening, feelings, boundaries, and assertiveness.
What are some reasons someone might want to meet with a Stephen Minister?
A person might want to meet with a Stephen Minister for a number of reasons, such as job loss, separation or divorce from a spouse, declining health, illness of a loved one, isolation, loneliness, or any other crisis or life difficulty.
Is Stephen Ministry confidential?
Confidentiality is the basis of all Stephen Ministry relationships. Anyone receiving care can be assured that his or her identity and what is shared during any meetings with their Stephen Minister will remain private.
How can someone begin receiving care from a Stephen Minister?
Abbigail Felton, Director of Congregational Ministries and Rev. Dr. Glenn Myers are our Stephen Leaders who coordinate referrals. If you or someone you know could benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister, please email afelton@wesleymemorial.org or gmyers@wesleymemorial.org.
Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. -Galatians 6:2