Stephen Ministry.

Care for Hurting People.

Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2, NRSV)

What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is a lay caring ministry founded in 1975. It is used by 13,000 churches in over 170 Christian denominations throughout the world.  More than one-and-a-half-million people have had a Stephen Minister providing one-to-one Christian care during their tough times.  Those receiving care may be experiencing life challenges like divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness (their own or someone else’s), or other significant experience causing grief, loneliness, fear or anger.

Bozeman UMC became a Stephen Ministry congregation in 2014. At present, we have over 20 Stephen Ministers led by 4 Stephen Leaders. Since that time, we have cared for more than 50 hurting people.

Who are Stephen Ministers?

Stephen Ministers are congregation members who have been trained to offer high-quality, one-to-one, confidential Christian care to people struggling through a difficult time in life.  

A Stephen Minister usually provides care to one person at a time, and meets with that person once a week for about an hour. Twice a month, Stephen Ministers gather with their Stephen Leaders for supervision and continuing education to ensure our care receivers receive consistent, high quality Christian care.

How would I request a Stephen Minister?

If you think a Stephen Minister might be helpful for you, an adult family member, neighbor or friend, talk with any of the Stephen Leaders listed below or send an email to stephenministry@bozemanumc.org. A Stephen Leader will get back to you within a day or two.

How would I become a Stephen Minister?

If you feel you may have a heart for this ministry, we would love to talk to you about it. There is an application process and training requirements. For more information,  talk with any of the Stephen Leaders listed below or send an email to stephenministry@bozemanumc.org. A Stephen Leader will get back to you within a day or two.   
 
If you have questions about this program, or would like to get involved, please email us! stephenministry@bozemanumc.org