Stephen Ministers are congregation members who have trained for 50 hours to offer high-quality, one-to-one Christian care to people going through tough times. Stephen Ministers come from all walks of life. Their commonality is a passion for bringing Christ's love and care to people during a time of need. Since 1975, more than 650,000 people from more than 12,000 congregations and other organizations have been trained as Stephen Ministers.

• Stephen Ministers: The After People" - A concise, poignant description of what a Stephen Minister is.
• "The Blessings of Serving as a Stephen Minister" - Read what Stephen Ministers have to say about serving in this ministry.

• Congregations receive a practical and powerful way to respond to Christ's commandment: "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12 RSV).
• Pastors have a team of gifted, trained, and committed lay caregivers ready to minister to hurting people.
• Laypeople nurture and use their gifts in meaningful ministry, growing spiritually as they serve others.
• People who are hurting have a compassionate companion - a caring Christian friend who provides emotional and spiritual support.