Our Vision: To be a church fully Engaged in Reaching Up, Reaching In, and Reaching Out.
Hurting? Struggling? Discouraged? Stressed? Confused? Broken?
Stephen Ministers Are Ready to Care
What is Stephen Ministry?
The Stephen Ministry is a Christian, confidential, care-giving ministry available to all those who are undergoing a difficult time.
A Stephen Minister is …
•A caring Christian friend who listens, cares, prays, supports, and encourages.
•A trained lay person who will “be there” for the care receiver.
"Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."
Galatians 6:2
Our Stephen Leaders are …
Stephen Minister members of First Presbyterian Church DeLand, each with over 50 additional hours of training in how to walk with those who are in the midst of life’s swirly times.
"Therefore encourage one another and build up each other.“ 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Stephen Ministry Multiplies Care
Pastors are always on the front lines of care, especially during times of crisis. But there are more needs for ongoing, one-to-one care than a pastor can possibly meet alone. Stephen Ministry provides a biblical solution: equipping God's people for ministry. Gifted lay people are trained to support and extend the care that our pastor will continue to provide. Stephen Ministers reach out with God's love to people… congregation members and nonmembers alike.
Stephen Ministers Care for People Facing Tough Times
We all experience challenges in life when we could benefit from the support of a caring Christian friend. Stephen Ministers are ready to provide the emotional and spiritual care we need when faced with a crisis or difficulty, such as:
•Loss of a loved one
•Hospitalization
•Divorce or separation
•Loneliness or discouragement
•Spiritual crises
•Unemployment or a job crisis
•A terminal illness
•Incarceration
•Aging
•Birth, adoption, miscarriage, or infertility
•A chronic illness
•Relocation
•Recovery after an accident or disaster
•And many more
Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry. The identity of those receiving care and what takes place in each caring relationship remains private.
For more information on Stephen Ministry please call the Church Office 386-734-6212.