WHAT IS STEPHEN MINISTRY?

In this video from 2022, we hear directly from our speaker about what Stephen Ministry looks like and how it helps us care for one another in our community. --->

Learn more about St. Peter’s Stephen Ministry in this video from our 2025–2026 Ministry Minute Series. Discover how Stephen Ministry offers care, support, to people going through difficult times.

Stephen Ministry at St. Peter’s

From our 2022 Summer Spirituality Series, this video explores Stephen Ministry and what it looks like at St. Peter’s. Learn how Stephen Ministers offer confidential, one-on-one care and support to people going through difficult times. Discover how this ministry helps us share God’s love by walking alongside others when they need it most.

Click the picture to watch the video and learn more about Stephen Ministry at St. Peter’s.

"It is in giving that we receive" St. Francis

"Every time I am with my care receiver I am amazed at how the experience of being with him has shaped my own perspective on aging, vulnerability , resilience and empathy.


The best parts of being a caregiver for me is knowing that I can be there for someone. I like listening to his stories. I am happy to be a sounding board for his complains, and someone he can trust with his worries and concerns.


I am sure being a Stephen Minister has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had."


Peace,

Joe


"I am sure being a Stephen Minister has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had."

Peace,

Joe

"When people ask why someone would want to be a Stephen Minister, the first answer is usually the most obvious: to help those walking through some of the most challenging times of their lives. We are not counselors, and we are not there to fix problems. Instead, we offer the simple but powerful gift of presence. We provide a completely safe, confidential space where care receivers can unburden themselves. I saw this firsthand with my last care receiver, who often told me how much relief he found in sharing his personal history and struggles, trusting entirely that they would remain private.

What is less obvious, though, is how much we as caregivers can grow in the process. Walking alongside someone in their vulnerability often sparks profound self- reflection. You are sometimes faced with deep, challenging questions that prompt you to explore your own heart and mind.

And then there is the community we build with one another. The relationships that form among Stephen Ministers are just as meaningful. Through our regular meetings and the shared weight of this work, we develop deep mutual trust, supporting one another through the deeply personal experiences we share."

Peace,

Chuck

"When people ask why someone would want to be a Stephen Minister, the first answer is usually the most obvious: to help those walking through some of the most challenging times of their lives."

Peace,

Chuck

"Several thoughts come to mind when I consider the question; 'What have I gained by becoming a Stephen Minister?” First and foremost, I've gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the power and impact of compassion. Compassion often inspires the trust that supports and enhances the relationship between a minister and a care receiver. Therefore, when a care receiver demonstrates trust in their Stephen Minister, one truly receives a significant gift. In addition, the Stephen Ministry relationship imparts a 'knowing' about how one’s presence with another assists a process toward healing and/or resolution. Participating in Stephen Ministry allows me to develop a deeper reliance on, and connection with, God; the Holy Spirit. In turn, this connection leads to the change and greater stability sought by my care receivers. Stephen Ministry has provided many opportunities to give back to my Church community. I was blessed with generous and meaningful friendships after each ministry relationship concluded. There are, indeed, many unexpected 'rewards' to those who participate in this ministry of caring. Succinctly, Stephen Ministry enriches me -- time after time — as noted by the impactful words of St. Francis: 'For it is in giving that we receive.' ”

Peace,

Robert

"Stephen Ministry has provided many opportunities to give back to my Church community. I was blessed with generous and meaningful friendships after each ministry relationship concluded. There are, indeed, many unexpected “rewards” to those who participate in this ministry of caring."

Peace,

Robert

Click the Right and Left Arrows to learn more about Stephen Ministry.

Stephen Ministry at St Peter's

Saint Peter's first Stephen Ministry was created when our Stephen Leaders were trained in August 2013, a week-long intensive training in Pittsburgh PA. They were commissioned on September 15th at our Sunday service. In addition to our six newly commissioned leaders, we also have two previously-trained leaders in our parish who are part of our new ministry.

What do Stephen Minister's do?

Stephen Ministers are members of our parish who listen, care, encourage, and provide emotional and spiritual support to people who are going through a difficult time. They have received special training to provide confidential one-to-one support. Your Stephen Minister will meet with you faithfully for as long as there’s a need.

What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is the one-to-one lay caring ministry that takes place in congregations that use the Stephen Series system. Stephen Ministers are the "After People." They are ready to come alongside you--or your friends, neighbors, coworkers or relatives--and provide comfort and support for as long after as needed.

Should I be a Stephen Minster?

Be part of our dedicated team of Stephen Ministers who are involved with helping others along the path of uncertainty. The work is gratifying and enriching with a strong bond of trust and friendship developing as you journey through the training.

We would like to especially invite gentlemen to give serious consideration due to our need to have male Stephen Ministers to work with male care receivers.

How do I know if I

need a Stephen Minister?

If you’re facing a challenge you find difficult to manage on your own, or if you find yourself wearing out your friends and family with your problems, a Stephen Minister might be right for you. Stephen Ministers are specially equipped to walk with you through problems large and small.

Caregivers tell their stories.

"Stephen Ministers Speak" - Click to read what our Stephen Ministers say their ministry means to them.

Visit national website

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

Contact us

The Rev. Jeff Ross
Natalie Kerr

Referrals

If you’re facing a challenge you find difficult to manage on your own, or if you find yourself wearing out your friends and family with your problems, a Stephen Minister might be right for you. Stephen Ministers are specially equipped to walk with you through problems large and small.

To maintain confidentiality please make all referrals to The Rev. Jeff Ross and Natalie Kerr

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