I am a Stephen Ministry Leader. When I speak with people about this ministry, I am often met with confused looks and lots of questions. For a ministry that has been around for a long time with a stellar track record for offering comfort in times of crisis in the name of Jesus Christ, the lack of knowledge about what Stephen Ministry does is troubling for me.

However, to grow and continue to fulfill the mission of comfort and consolation for the people of Joy, the ministry needs a fuller understanding by all members. So, let’s start with the name – why Stephen? This ministry was named after the first martyr for the Christian faith, Stephen. Not because he was a martyr but for the role to which he was appointed by the early church elders.

Stephen was the first lay deacon, assigned to care for the widows and orphans of the infant church. He was chosen along with six others to perform this ministry, freeing the Apostles to preach and teach. He was chosen to assist with the feeding, clothing and comforting of those in need.

There is a long account of these happenings in Scripture (Acts 5:6-7, just two chapters but chocked full of information) which describes why he was appointed, his arrest, trial and defense and finally his execution. Several times, the description, “Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit”, is used when speaking about him. In many ways, Stephen acted as Christ’s hands and feet on earth, just as today’s Stephen Ministers act for their care receivers.

While today’s Stephen Ministry does not provide food and clothing to widows and orphans, they do bring the Bread of Life to those experiencing spiritual hunger and drought. Many situations may cause God’s people to be in spiritual stress. Pastors can provide the first dose of spiritual healing, but long- term recovery is aided by highly trained Stephen Ministers who can stay with the “widows and orphans”, the lonely and confused, the grieving and the angry, for as long as necessary, without judging, haranguing or abandoning.

Stephen Ministers are living proof that God loves you unconditionally! Read Acts 5: 6-7 to learn more about Stephen and his life in the Spirit.

Terri