Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministers are lay congregation members trained to provide one-to-one care to those experiencing a difficult season in life such as grief, divorce, job loss, illness, relocation, and other life-changing circumstances. Stephen Ministers come from all walks of life, but they all share a passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to others during a time of need. Stephen Ministers are trained, Christian caregivers. They are not counselors, therapists, advisors, or problem solvers. A Stephen Minister’s role is to listen carefully and offer confidential spiritual support.

A Stephen Minister is...

  • A congregation member with gifts for caregiving, who was carefully selected to walk beside a person who is hurting.
  • A layperson who has received at least 50 hours of training in providing spiritual and emotional care.
  • A compassionate Christian who confidentially listens, prays, supports, and encourages someone for as long as there is a need.
  • If you are a good listener and a compassionate person, prayerfully consider learning more about becoming a Stephen Minister.

If you would like more information about becoming a Stephen Minister or need a Stephen Minister, please contact Trissie Osborn.

Stephen Ministries St. Louis supports our congregation's Stephen Ministry. Stephen Ministries is a not-for-profit Christian educational organization based in St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1975, Stephen Ministries provides training and resources to thousands of congregations and organizations worldwide.

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Stephen Ministry: On Grace

During a chance encounter on vacation, Jim Beyer, a Stephen Minister with HPUMC, was able to connect with a complete stranger about HPUMC’s divorce recovery class, the power of grace, and Stephen Ministry. While many events and circumstances can imprison people in life, the message of Stephen Ministers is one of hope, mercy, freedom, release, and restoration.