Stephen Ministry is a one-to-one, Christ-centered care ministry. It equips trained lay people—called Stephen Ministers—to walk alongside individuals who are experiencing difficult seasons of life.
A Stephen Minister is not a counselor or therapist, but a caring Christian friend who provides a listening ear, prayer, encouragement, and spiritual support.
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This ministry is built on confidentiality, compassion, and presence. Whether you’re going through grief, illness, separation, loneliness, or another life challenge, your Stephen Minister will meet with you regularly to listen, pray, and remind you that you are not alone.
Stephen Ministry extends the care of the church beyond Sunday mornings, ensuring no one has to walk through pain or hardship by themselves.
How Stephen Ministry Works
When life gets tough, Stephen Ministry provides a caring companion—someone who listens, walks with you, and helps carry burdens. After you request care, you’ll be matched with a trained Stephen Minister. Meetings are typically once a week for about an hour, at a time and place that’s comfortable and private for you. The relationship continues as long as you need, whether it’s a few weeks or months.
Who Stephen Ministry
Serves
​You might consider connecting with a Stephen Minister if you’re facing any of the following:
Grief or loss
Divorce or marital difficulties
Job loss or financial stress
Loneliness, isolation
Serious illness, either your own or a family member's
Major life transitions (new job, retirement, relocation, etc.)
Struggles form unresolved past hurts.
If you feel like something in your life isn’t right and you’d benefit from someone who will listen and pray with you, Stephen Ministry may be helpful.
How to Get Started
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Fill out a request form or contact the Care Ministry at TMC
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A Stephen Ministry leader will follow up with you to talk about what you’re going through and see if it’s a good fit
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If yes, you’ll be paired with a Stephen Minister and start meeting (usually weekly)
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There is no cost to receive care—this ministry is offered freely as part of TMC’s care ministries.
Becoming a Stephen Minister
If you feel called to care for others, this might be your next step. Here’s what’s involved:
1
Commitment to Christ and the Church
Be a growing follower of Jesus and actively connected to TMC (or a local church community).
2
Commitment of Time and Heart
Set aside time for training and for ongoing, one-to-one meetings with someone in need. A caring heart, integrity, and willingness to listen are essential.
3
Commitment to Training and Support
Complete 50 hours of training that covers listening, prayer, boundaries, and caregiving skills—plus receive ongoing mentoring and encouragement as you serve.