Stephen Ministry

How much of my time will be required as a Stephen Minister?

The initial training involves approximately 50 hours. After completing training, you may be matched with a same gender individual for whom you are caring (a Care Receiver). You can expect to meet with your Care Receiver up to one time per week for one hour until the relationship closes. You will also be expected to attend one 60 – minute accountability group meeting per month for support and ongoing opportunities to learn new, updated information.

Will my phone be ringing constantly?

Typically, each Stephen Minister works with one Care Receiver at a time. Stephen Minister training will assist you in managing phone calls or excessive demands in a loving, and assertive manner.

Will our pastors and ministry leaders still minister to and counsel people?  

Most definitely!  Your caring relationship supplements what our ministry leadership team continues to do.

What if I get in “over my head?”  For instance, with a person who threatens suicide?

The Stephen Series training helps you know when and how to request professional help and close a relationship. The ongoing support of your accountability group, the Stephen Leaders, and Bethel Church Care Ministry are also available to help you make decisions.

How will I personally benefit from this experience?

You will learn many invaluable skills to impact in your personal life in a positive manner as well as to you as a Stephen Minister.  The fulfillment of helping another person is a blessing almost impossible to describe.

Who will be the care receivers? 

Individuals within Bethel Church or our community who are experiencing times of special need who turn to us for help.  Stephen Ministry is a way to reach out to others as well as to those in the Bethel Church community.

What if the care receiver doesn’t really want me to help?

A Stephen Leader will handle the initial details, and the Care Receiver will agree to meet with you and will be expecting your first contact.

Are other people as scared as I seem to be about this undertaking?

Probably so!  The training will eliminate much of this fear because you will not only learn “what to say,” but more importantly, “how to listen.”

How do I apply?  

Complete a Stephen Minister Application (available online here or pick one up in person at the Bethel Church Office) and return it to Pastor Craig Johnson, 2702 30th Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103.