What Is a Stephen Minister?
A Stephen Minister is a trained layperson who provides confidential, one-on-one emotional and spiritual care to individuals navigating difficult seasons, such as grief, illness, divorce, or job loss. Stephen Ministers are not counselors or therapists. They offer Christ-centered support and walk alongside individuals as they heal.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Listening with a compassionate, non-judgmental presence

  • Meeting regularly (typically weekly) with their care receiver

  • Praying with and for the person they are supporting

  • Maintaining strict confidentiality

  • Participating in supervision and ongoing training to provide effective care

How Does a Congregant Receive Care?

  1. Fill Out Request Form
    Congregants may submit a care request via this online Google Form or a paper form available in the Common Ground Midtown lobby. The form includes the individual's name, a brief description of their care need, and a request for which pastor they would like to meet with for intake.

  2. Meet with Pastor for Intake
    A pastor meets with the congregant to discern if a Stephen Minister is the appropriate next step or if another path (such as therapy, or a combination) may be better. With the congregant’s permission, the pastor informs Liz Donaldson, the Stephen Ministry leader.

  3. Sign Forms
    During the intake meeting, the congregant signs an “Agreement to Receive Care” form. The pastor then sends this form to Liz.

  4. Placement with Stephen Minister
    Liz contacts the Stephen Ministry team to determine availability and share relevant information regarding the request.

  5. Introduction
    Liz sends an introductory email connecting the care receiver with their assigned Stephen Minister.

Note: If a Stephen Minister requires support related to their care receiver’s situation, they will consult Liz and the intake pastor for guidance.

Commissioning
On Sunday, June 8, we will commission our first group of trained Stephen Ministers during the worship service. This brief yet meaningful moment will invite the congregation to affirm and pray over those stepping into this new role of care. Drawing from the national Stephen Ministry commissioning liturgy, the service will celebrate their calling and commitment to walk alongside others with compassion, presence, and Christ-centered support.

Have questions? Please email Liz Donaldson or Jim Matthies for further information.