Stephen Ministry at Paradise Valley UMC...
equips lay persons to provide distinctively Christian one–to–one care to assist those who are experiencing life's challenges.
It acknowledges Stephen Ministers as caregivers, with God being the ultimate cure giver. Stephen Ministry assists our pastors by
ensuring that care is available whenever it is needed, for however long it is needed.
"Be kind and compassionate to one another." Ephesians 4:2
Stephen Ministry meets the needs of people...
who are hurting and desire the understanding and comfort of an empathetic listener trained in confidentiality. These individuals may
be experiencing a personal or spiritual crisis, or the difficulties inherent in transitions: divorce; parenting; retirement; illness;
bereavement or loneliness.
"Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2
Stephen Ministers are committed Christian people who...
- are adults of all ages and backgrounds, and have followed God's call to develop their gifts for bringing the care and concern of
Christ's community (or, of our congregation) to others.
- are compassionate, dependable and trustworthy.
- have received 50+ hours of training in such topics as reflective listening, confidentiality, understanding feelings, assertiveness,
use of prayer and the scriptures.
"Encourage one another and build one another up." 1Thessalonians 5:11
How can you support our Stephen Ministry program?
- Pray.
- Refer those who might benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister.
- Be open to receiving a Stephen Minister when you are in need of supportive Christian care.
- Consider serving as a Stephen Minister.
- Support Stephen Ministry with your financial gifts.
Why the name Stephen?
The name Stephen comes from St. Stephen, who was the first lay person commissioned by the apostles to provide caring ministry to those in
need (as recorded in Acts 6).
The story behind the logo...
The Stephen Ministry logo tells the story of a care receiver's journey from brokenness to wholeness through the transforming power of the
cross of Jesus. It serves as a simple reminder that it is not the Stephen Minister who restores a person to wholeness. Rather, it is only
through the cross of Jesus that a person can be made whole.
For additional questions, or to request a Stephen Minister for yourself or someone else,
contact the church office at 602–840–8360. Office staff will give you the contact information for Fran Clark or Tawn Watkins.
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