With Stephen Ministry, members and friends of First Church do not have to go through crises and difficulties alone. Instead, they may be paired with a trained person who has a caring heart and who will walk alongside them for as long as necessary. Stephen Ministers are uniquely gifted to give others the emotional support and spiritual care they need to move ahead in their lives.

We have had a Stephen Ministry program at First Church for a number of years now and it has made a positive impact on the lives of many people. While not replacing pastoral care, it complements the work of our ministers by establishing regular contact with a person who has special needs.

Prospective Stephen Ministers are interviewed, and after acceptance into the program, receive 50 hours of training to equip them for the important job they will do. This serves to assure the care receiver that his or her Stephen Minister brings both compassion and critical skills to the relationship.

We invite those who may feel directed toward this ministry to discuss the possibility with the pastoral staff. Likewise, if you or someone you know might have a need to be served by a Stephen Minister, speak to one of the pastors.