Meaningful Christ-Centered Community Through the Stephen Ministry by Ludmilla Teterina

Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ . (Galatians 6:2).

“Remember I told you about my friend that recently lost her husband? She has been really struggling lately. I feel so helpless when I talk with her”

“Have you thought about Stephen Ministry and how they could help?”

“I am not sure I know enough about them to share with her. What is Stephen Ministry?”

“I am glad you asked! Let me tell you about it.”

The name Stephen Ministry originated from the story in the book of Acts, where the then young church of Christ selected seven ministers whose primary responsibility was to take care of the poor and those in need. Among the seven, Stephen is the most famous not only because he was among the first Christian martyrs, but also because he was notoriously passionate and enthusiastic, full of the Holy Spirit, and accomplishing remarkable things in the name of Christ. (Acts 6)

Stephen Ministries, as an international organization, was founded in 1975 in St. Louis. It became a part of Second Baptist Church in 2004 when the first group of Stephen Leaders received their training and were commissioned to the ministry. Today, a group of sixteen Stephen Ministers and Leaders serve among our congregation. Three new ministers are undergoing the training right now.

So to begin, let me tell you what Stephen Ministry is not. It is not an exclusive club of trained individuals who regularly enjoy each other's company. It is not a service to provide psychological or psycho-social counseling. It is not a place to get financial help or housekeeping services. If you or someone you know seek professional help, Stephen Ministry is not for you.

Stephen Ministry provides compassionate, confidential spiritual and emotional Christian care. Recipients of this care are not only those who experience severe life crises but anyone who is struggling through a difficult time. However, you might define the difficult time. Stephen Ministers undergo many hours of intensive training to be equipped for this kind of care and minister to their care recipients on a one-on-one basis. So, while they do not offer to counsel or help with groceries, Stephen Ministers provide something that many of us miss and long for —the non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance and spiritual companionship that often grow into life-long friendships. Don't tell me that you or I couldn’t use that. Stephen Ministers come alongside when life is uncertain, challenging, or simply painful. They walk with you. They listen to you. They pray with you. When was the last time someone prayed for you and with you?

Oh, and let me clarify one common misconception, as people often indicate no need or interest in having a Stephen Minister. You see, Stephen Ministry is not just for the weak. It is not just for those who "can't handle" whatever life throws at you. It is not just for those who have it worse than you do. It is not an admission of failure, or weakness, or despair. Stephen Ministry is a way to live our life as a family of Christ, providing care and support for one another as Christ would have us do. Remember Jason’s recent sermon about Christ-Centered Community? Stephen Ministry is just one living expression of what it might be like among those who call themselves Christ-followers. Bearing each other's burdens is what we all are called to do. And that's what Stephen Ministers are trained to do. So, if you are still unsure, if you still doubt whether Stephen Ministry has any value for you or the ones you care about, I challenge you — give it a try. Talk to the Pastors. Talk to Stephen Ministers. See for yourself if your life could be enriched through a caring, confidential relationship that Stephen Ministry can offer.

If you would like more information or have questions about Stephen Ministry, we would love to talk to you. You can contact Carol Kingery, Emmitt Drumgoole or any Pastor at the Church.

“Do you think Stephen Ministry is something your widow friend could use?”

Stephen Ministry of Second Baptist Church.