Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry is an integral part of Ascension's Vision Statement (printed each Sunday in our bulletin) which reads:

"A safe haven where all generations and cultures are wanted, welcomed and accepted in Christ. A supportive and caring church where the love of Christ fills our worship and the grace of God leads us to discover what is important in life and to use our gifts as servants."

Stephen Ministry provides the opportunity to "use our gifts as servants" bringing God's love to those who are hurting.

Our congreation has participated in the Stephen Ministry Program since 1988. What a blessing it has been - and continues to be - to our Stephen Ministers as well as to those who have received their care.

Stephen Ministry is an arm of our Pastor's ministry but DOES NOT REPLACE his pastoral care but helps extend that care.

Sometimes it takes more than a parka or a blanket to keep another person warm. Sometimes it takes the prescence of a caring Christian friend. Stephen Ministers share the warmth of God's love with those who need it most.

Christian care is never outdated. God's command that we love one another is the same now as it was thousands of years ago.

For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.

The people asked "when"...

His answer was:

Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.

Jesus is present in you when you care for others, and in those for whom you care. Stephen Ministers help provide a safe haven where all generations and cultures are wanted, welcomed and accepted in Christ.