Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministers Care

When was the last time someone really listened to you? We're talking about that undistracted, full attention kind of listening. That's one of the ways Stephen Ministers care for others.

Stephen Ministers work alongside our pastors to care, encourage, and provide emotional and spiritual support to people who are going through a difficult time, such as divorce, grief, hospitalization, unemployment, terminal illness, relocation, chronic illness, or loneliness.

Why is it called "Stephen Ministry"? 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).

How do I get matched with a Stephen Minister? If you need special care from a Stephen Minister, contact Rev. Rick Mang (817-481-2559). If you know of someone who could benefit from the care of a Stephen Ministry, download and complete a referral form (pdf). Return the form to Katherine in the church office. Stephen Ministers are also available to you on Sunday mornings at the altar following each worship service.

How do I become a Stephen Minister? If you have gifts for caring, encouragement, and listening, Stephen Ministry might be the right place for you to serve! Becoming a Stephen Minister does take commitment. Stephen Ministers undergo approximately 50 hours of training and commit to serve the ministry for two years. Stephen Ministers must also submit an application and be interviewed by a member of the Stephen Ministry Leadership Team. Please prayerfully consider whether you might want to be part of this vital ministry.

Stephen Minister Applications
We are currently taking applications for new Stephen Ministers! Stephen Ministers work alongside our pastors to care, encourage, and provide emotional and spiritual support to people who are going through a difficult time. Is God calling you to become a Stephen Minister? We are recruiting for our next Stephen Ministry class. If you have gifts for caring, encouragement, and listening, Stephen Ministry might be the right place for you to serve!  The application deadline is August 13, and training starts September 12. Applications are available at the Welcome Center in the Sanctuary, online (PDF) or by contacting Katherine Hunter (817-481-2559 x130 or katherineh@fumcg.org). Questions? Contact Rick Mang (rickm@fumcg.org), Katherine Hunter (katherineh@fumcg.org) or Julie Croft (juliecroft@hotmail.com).

Click here to view and/or download an application (link opens a pdf file).