Stephen Ministers: The After People

By The Rev’d Dr. Jeff Trostle, Director of Pastoral Care

People often ask, “What exactly is a Stephen Minister?” One way to put it is that Stephen Ministers are the 'After People!'

Stephen Ministers are there:

• …after the phone call you hoped you’d never get.

• …after the funeral, when everyone has left and the emotions you’ve held at bay come crashing in on you.

• …after the relationship falls apart and the bottom falls out of your life.

• …after the doctor delivers news you hoped you’d never hear.

• …after retiring, when you realize the changes in your life are more than you expected.

• …after the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away – and the house suddenly seems so empty.

• …after the baby arrives, demanding more of you than you ever dreamed possible.

• …after you find a pink slip with your final paycheck.

• …after your family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out.

Stephen Ministers are the 'After People.' They are ready to come alongside you – or someone you may know in our parish – and provide comfort, support, and a listening ear for as long after as needed.

Stephen Ministry is a confidential, one-on-one ministry to those suffering from life’s challenges. Please reach out if you need someone to trust, someone who will listen, someone who will care. Our Stephen Ministers are ready to help.

Contact Donna Trostle: StephenMinistry@StPetersFL.com

Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.
-Galatians 6:2

Stephen Ministers: A Heart for the Hurting

by Donna Trostle, Stephen Ministry Coordinator

All of us go through difficult and challenging seasons.  It can be extremely helpful to have someone come alongside us to give understanding and encouragement – to provide stability, hope, and Biblical principles to help us through the storm.

That is what a Stephen Minister is able to provide:  a listening ear, a supportive perspective, and God’s Word to help us through the challenges of life.  

Who are Stephen Ministers?

At St. Peter’s we have compassionate individuals who are trained to help us when we encounter loss, grief, relationship challenges, and a myriad of things that can throw our lives into a tailspin.  These Stephen Ministers are not counselors.  They are not “know-it-alls.”  They are not individuals who try to fix everyone’s troubles.  They simply provide love, care, and support when we need it most.

Perhaps you, a friend, or a family member would benefit from this kind of help and support.  If so, a Stephen Minister may be just what is needed.

Becoming a Stephen Minister.

For those who would like to come alongside and support others in a more intentional way, we provide training to become a Stephen Minister.  Through the training, you will receive practical, hands-on learning and resources to provide Christ-centered care and meet the emotional and spiritual needs of others.  Stephen Ministry promotes discipleship and deepens spiritual growth.

As a Stephen Minister you will also be supported in your ministry by our Stephen Leaders who will help you grow as you help others.  Being a Stephen Minister may be one of the most rewarding opportunities you will ever embrace.  Stephen Ministry makes ministry happen!

Find Out More.

To learn how a Stephen Minister can help you or someone you know – or how you can become a Stephen Minister – contact Donna Trostle at StephenMinistry@StPetersFL.com.  Training will begin in the fall of 2021.  Your request will be confidential.