What is Stephen Ministry?
Stephen Ministry is one-to-one confidential, spiritual, and emotional care for OLG parishioners by a trained Catholic who will provide compassionate listening, encouragement, and prayer throughout a difficult season of life on a weekly basis.
Why Should I Consider a Stephen Minister?
Life doesn't always go as planned. There are seasons when grief feels overwhelming, an illness changes everything, a marriage or relationship ends, caregiving becomes exhausting, loneliness settles in, or uncertainty about the future leaves you feeling isolated.
Whether you're grieving, facing a health challenge, or navigating a major life transition, a Stephen Minister will be present to you, help you process emotions, pray with and for you and lift some of the heaviness of what burdens you.
Healing often begins with being heard.
“We all carry burdens that can weigh us down. I’ve seen how the caring presence of a Stephen Minister can lighten that load and make a difference in the lives of those who are hurting.”
Who Is a Stephen Minister?
A Stephen Minister is a trained member of Our Lady of Grace who provides emotional and spiritual support by being truly present and listening to you and your concerns. Stephen Ministers will not try to fix your problems or tell you what to do. Instead, they offer Christ's compassionate presence by listening without judgment, encouraging you, praying with you, and faithfully walking alongside you. Stephen Ministers are trained lay caregivers, they are not counselors or therapists. They know the difference between listening and advising, and when professional resources may be more appropriate.
You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from having someone walk beside you.
Is a Stephen Minister Right for You?
Many find comfort simply having someone be present with them during life's difficult moments. Stephen Ministry may be helpful if you are experiencing:
Death of a loved one
Serious or chronic illness
Caregiving responsibilities
Divorce or separation
Job loss or retirement
Anxiety about life's changes
Loneliness or isolation
Hospitalization or rehabilitation
Long-term recovery
Spiritual struggles
Other difficult life circumstances
If you're wondering whether your situation is "serious enough," it probably is.
What to Expect with a Stephen Minister
Compassionate Listening
You will be heard with patience, prayer, and understanding as you share what is on your heart.
Spiritual and Emotional Care
Receive care without judgment, and never be pressured to have all the answers.
Consistent Prayer Support
Know that someone is praying for you and with you.
Dedicated Companion
Meet with the same Stephen Minister (same gender) weekly at a mutually chosen place and time. Simply collaborate on scheduling changes.
Steady Reminders
The relationship is a reminder that you are not alone. It is flexible and ends when you feel you no longer need care or when its determined different care is needed.
What Recipients Say About Stephen Ministry
“It was such a burden off my shoulders.”
“My Stephen Minister is truly a gift.”
“My Stephen Minister refused to give up on me and gave me hope.”
“I began to feel God’s love again.”
“Our conversations have meant so much to me.”
Who to Contact to Learn More
If you would like to learn more about Stephen Ministry, request a Stephen Minister, become a Stephen Minister, or simply ask questions about whether it is right for you, please contact Laura McGill, Associate Director for Pastoral Outreach lauramcgill@olgparish.org or 952-929-3317 ext. 9337. Every conversation is welcomed with compassion and kept confidential.
Our Lady of Grace Stephen Ministry Team
FAQs
Why is it called Stephen Ministry?
In the book of Acts, chapter 6, Stephen was chosen to provide caring ministry to those in need. Since the time of the Apostles, caring ministry has been considered a hallmark of the Christian faith community.
How am I matched with a Stephen Minister?
Laura will listen intently to your needs and prayfully consider who may be the best fit with you.
Will the Stephen Minister pressure me religiously or in any way?
No. Stephen Ministers will meet you where you are and will not pressure in any way.
Do Stephen’s Ministers receive training and supervision?
Yes. They trained for many hours to become certified, and participate in regular supervision, during which your name is kept confidential.
Where and when do we meet?
The two of you collaborate to determine the best location and time for your meetings. Ideally you meet in person, but if you need to meet virtually from time to time, that is permissible.
What if I can’t meet weekly?
You and your Stephen Minister will have vacations or circumstances that may prevent you from meeting weekly. Stay in communication to preplan together.
What if I don't think it's a good fit or I want to end the relationship?
If you don't think you and your minister are a good fit, bring your concerns to Laura. You and your Stephen Minister can end the relationship at any time it is appropriate to do so.
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”