For over 25 years Stephen Ministry has been training laypersons to provide one-to-one Christian care for members of their own congregations in times of special need. The organization now involves more than 5,000 congregations from over 90 denominations worldwide. At the Church of the Covenant, Stephen Ministry is a highly skill and time intensive opportunity for volunteers as well as recipients of service. It helps us meet our goal of being "a caring community" for those who worship with us, including students in nearby colleges and universities. This Ministry provides weekly, confidential, one-on-one personal care for those fellow worshippers going through significant changes and transitions in their lives. Our four Stephen Leaders have had 50 hours of training for their leadership, training and supervision roles. In turn, they then gave 50 hours of training to the seven Stephen Ministers in our congregation. When someone requests Stephen Ministry, or otherwise seeks help of the kind available through this resource, our Stephen Ministry Referrals Coordinator meets with them, explains what Stephen Ministry is, and helps to determine whether Stephen Ministry is the kind of care that is appropriate, supportive and helpful. Those interested can discuss their needs or interests with one of our pastors or the Stephen Ministry Referral Coordinator. The Coordinator's name and other information about Stephen Ministry can be provided by the church office.   Back to Covenant Caring