Stephen Ministry is a program founded in 1975 to train and support lay people in providing one-to-one Christian care (in coordination with pastoral staff) to those who are experiencing illness, grief, loneliness, job loss, divorce, relocation or other life difficulties.  ACC is one of 11,000 congregations worldwide that offer Stephen Ministry to those in need.

 

ACC has had an active Stephen Ministry program since 1997 and has trained 47 Stephen Ministers. Stephen Ministers are faithful Christians who feel called to care for others on a one-to-one basis. They often find that this ministry helps to deepen their own faith as they serve in Christ's name.

 

Stephen Ministers meet with a care receiver on a one-to-one basis for about one hour per week for varying lengths of time, depending on the care receiver's needs.  Stephen Ministers receive extensive introductory training, on-going supervision and continuing education to prepare them to be good listeners, to provide emotional and spiritual support and to maintain confidentiality.

 

If you are interested in serving as a Stephen Minister, please contact Jeff McHarg.  If you would like to receive care from a Stephen Minister, contact Referrals Coordinator Elaine Olmstead.