The Stephen Ministry of Christ Indy UMC
At Christ Church Indy UMC, we are committed to caring for one another—especially during life’s most difficult seasons. Stephen Ministry is one important way we live out that calling.Stephen Ministry is a proven and effective ministry that equips members of our congregation to provide high-quality, one-to-one, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting.
What Is Stephen Ministry?
Stephen Ministry offers compassionate, confidential care through trained lay people—called Stephen Ministers—who walk alongside individuals experiencing life challenges such as grief, illness, job loss, loneliness, or other difficult transitions.
A Stephen Minister typically meets with one person at a time, usually once a week, offering a listening ear, encouragement, prayer, and ongoing emotional and spiritual support. This ministry reflects a simple but powerful idea: Christ caring for people through people.
Who is involved?
Stephen Ministry includes three key roles:
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Stephen Leaders – pastors, staff, and trained lay leaders who lead, organize, and supervise the ministry within the church.
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Stephen Ministers – congregation members trained in caregiving skills who provide one-to-one care.
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Care Receivers – individuals going through a difficult time who receive care and support.
Care receivers are thoughtfully matched with a Stephen Minister after meeting with a pastor or Stephen Leader, and the caring relationship continues as long as the need exists.
A Ministry of Care and Confidentiality
Stephen Ministers are trained to provide care that is:
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Confidential – what is shared remains private
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Consistent – regular weekly support and presence
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Christ-centered – rooted in prayer, compassion, and faith
They focus on listening, caring, and walking with people—not fixing their problems—trusting God as the ultimate source of healing.