Stephen Ministry

Confidential and Christian Ministry to Those Experiencing Grief

Stephen Ministers are lay members of our Parish who are specially trained to listen and provide confidential support and encouragement to others who are in need. Stephen Ministry is distinctively Christian care giving for people going through difficult times or who are other wise in need of support in their lives.

Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry. The identity of those receiving care and what takes place in each caring relationship remains private. Do you need someone to listen, pray and stand beside you as you get through a challenging time? Stephen Ministers can be there for you.



Testimonials from two Stephen Ministry Care Receivers

“I have been meeting with my volunteer Stephen Minister once a week and we talk about any number of things. My Stephen Minister listens to me with great patience, always encouraging me to talk and the talking helps me process my feelings. I enjoy the spiritual support in my life.” – male Stephen Care Receiver

“I remember sitting in the Parish Office for a few minutes, discussing the Stephen Ministry. How could I have known that it would enrich my life so greatly. Thank you for sending me my Stephen Minister. Over this past year she has been fantastic. She was the right person at the right time. Thank you.” – female Stephen Care Receiver

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ARE YOU HURTING?

     Have you been crying out to God but also feel you need someone kind and compassionate to pour your heart out to and pray with you? To lift you up during a hard time and share scripture and encouragement? Do you feel that you need more support or a different kind of support than family and friends? We have those people who are willing to listen to you and help you carry the heavy load. Smaller or bigger problems, no judgement. 

     These people are Stephen Ministers. A burden shared is a burden lightened. Let our trained listeners support through this difficult time. You don’t have to walk alone.

      To inquire about Stephen Ministry, please contact Scott Wright at 734-821-2121 or swright@stfrancis2.org. 

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Named for St. Stephen, one of the first seven laypeople called by the church to assist the apostles in caring for others, Stephen Ministry is our one-to-one lay caregiving ministry.  Will you consider serving in Jesus’ name as a trained minister to care for those who are making a long journey through the valley of a life crisis. Learn more and apply.  Contact Scott at the parish office.   (You can read Stephen’s story in Acts 6 and 7.) 

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Extra Grief Support
MEETS THE FIRST WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH 12:30 PM  IN THE St. Francis PARISH LIBRARY.    Whether you are grieving the loss of spouse, loss of child (including pregnancy loss or early infant death), loss of parent and/or other losses for family members or friends, join us for a time of fellowship and sharing with people who are experiencing similar issues and challenges. Whether your loss was several years ago or several weeks ago and you feel you need support, you are encouraged to attend.  Contact: Anna Richards for more information: annalpc@hushmail.com