Becoming a Stephen Minister
I'm interested in becoming a Stephen Minister
Stephen Ministers are committed Christian people who:
Stephen Ministers are committed Christian people who:
- Express God's care to others through their lives
- Receive 50 hours of initial training in important caring ministry skills and concepts
- Are commissioned as Stephen Ministers after completing their initial training
- Visit another person regularly and dependably and offer Christian support and care
- Participate in regular support and supervision under the guidance of trained Stephen Leaders
- Are committed to preserving the confidential nature of the caring relationship
- Serve for at least two years
- Receive continuing education and skill-building throughout their years of service
- Attend to the caregiving process and leave the results to God
- Are full or affiliate members of Valley Presbyterian Church
- Stephen Ministers are NOT counselors or therapists, problem solvers, casual visitors, or someone who runs errands or helps with chores.
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What does the training involve?
The training involves an intensive course that is currently held Fridays from 9 to 3 from January through March. The course comprises 50 hours of classroom training. You will be expected to prepare for the courses with assigned readings and reflection. Preparation time is usually about 4 hours. After the initial training you will have the opportunity to continue learning by attending Continuing Education and peer group meetings. These are held the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month from 9 to 11. The continuing education is followed by peer group meetings, which guides us with our work. |
What happens after training?
After training, you sign a 2-year commitment to serve as a Stephen Minister. Should an emergency arise, you can contact the Recruiting Coordinator or the church office to discuss your situation. You might take a temporary leave or other arrangement that works for both you and the Stephen Ministry at Valley Presbyterian Church. For more information contact the church office using the phone or email link at the top of this page.
After training, you sign a 2-year commitment to serve as a Stephen Minister. Should an emergency arise, you can contact the Recruiting Coordinator or the church office to discuss your situation. You might take a temporary leave or other arrangement that works for both you and the Stephen Ministry at Valley Presbyterian Church. For more information contact the church office using the phone or email link at the top of this page.