What is Stephen Ministry and who is it for?

 We participate in an international program which equips laypeople (Stephen Ministers) with skills needed to support
church and community members who are hurting (care receivers).  It was started by the Lutheran Church 30 years ago and is participated in by Christian churches of many different denominations around the world.  Stephen Ministers are trained members of our congregation who offer Christian care by way of conversation, empathy and shared faith.  We administer to people suffering through, for example, divorce, illness, diagnosis, job change, relationship issues, hospitalization, and other losses.  Many of our care receivers are longtime caregivers.
 
 

How is it accessed?

 Inform your loved one of our program!  Pass along a trifold which is available in the pew racks or speak of this website so that he or she can absorb the information at a quiet moment.  Offer to facilitate the connection by calling our church office (716-759-8396), a Stephen Leader or Stephen Minister as soon as possible.  Marian Duerr (Referrals) can be reached at 716-689-0840.
 
 

Sometimes it takes awhile before a person realizes “I need a Stephen Minister.”

In assisting with that decision, we wish to assure him or her that:
 

•         We are deeply committed to issues of confidentiality.
•         We think of ourselves as caregivers not curegivers.
•          Stephen Ministers and care receivers are gender-matched.

We are committed to delivering increasingly effective, tailor-made care.

 We honor the specific needs of our care receivers by examining our own lives, motivations and faith while carefully listening to that person.  Despite varying lengths, each relationship connotes a beginning, middle and end.  Our prayers are answered when the care receiver no longer “needs” his or her Stephen Minister. This is a very real goal.  Satisfaction for caregiver and care receiver alike is enormous.
 
 

Stephen Ministers currently serving:  Marian Duerr, Allene Falk, Janet Hay, Carolyn Holmes, Sandra Kronmuller, Nancy Murto, Chrittina Shrewsbury, Tucky Sillars and Glenn Wygant.
 
 

Stephen Leaders:  Greg Hall, Pastor; Marian Duerr, Referrals.
 
 

How members of the congregation can help:
 

•         Pray for our Stephen Ministry Program.

•        Think about your gifts.  Consider becoming a Stephen Minister.

•        Tell friends about this program and the care it can provide; suggest it to them.Tell the pastor or the Stephen Leaders about those who need “a caring presence.”

•       Be willing to receive care in times of need.

•        Acknowledge and encourage Stephen Ministers and Leaders who are serving.