Serving: San Jose, Santa Clara, Cupertino, Los Altos, Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, Campbell
stephen ministry
Stephen Ministries was founded by Dr. Kenneth C. Haugk—a pastor and clinical psychologist—who launched this one-on-one lay caregiving ministry in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1975. Its aim is to equip Christians to provide care for those navigating life's valleys, walking alongside them through difficult times.
To date, more than 14,000 churches worldwide have adopted this caregiving model, bringing the love of Jesus to those in need.
Founding Philosophy: "Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)
Origin of the Name: Derived from Acts Chapter 6, Stephen was the first brother chosen to serve those in need.
Core of Ministry
Recipients of Care
Recipients of Care
- Rooted in God’s love for the world and working in partnership with the church, this ministry trains laypeople with a heart for caring for others to become "Stephen Ministers," providing weekly, gender-matched, one-on-one companionship and care.
Recipients of Care
Recipients of Care
Recipients of Care
Suitable for individuals facing a wide range of life circumstances and needs, including—but not limited to—the following:
Bereavement, hospitalization, separation, divorce, loneliness, depression, unemployment, career transitions or job-seeking, work-related or financial stress, spiritual low points, serious illness, aging, chronic conditi
Suitable for individuals facing a wide range of life circumstances and needs, including—but not limited to—the following:
Bereavement, hospitalization, separation, divorce, loneliness, depression, unemployment, career transitions or job-seeking, work-related or financial stress, spiritual low points, serious illness, aging, chronic conditions, miscarriage, relocation, adoption, experiences of disaster or accidents, empty nest syndrome, midlife crises, sudden shifts in family dynamics, and various forms of personal loss.
A Stephen Minister Is
A Stephen Minister Is Not
A Stephen Minister Is Not
- A Trained Church Servant: Having completed approximately 50 hours of specialized training in Christ-centered care, and participating regularly in bi-monthly supervision meetings.
- A Trustworthy Companion: Your personal information and what you choose to share will be kept in strict confidence; when necessary, they will also assist in refer
- A Trained Church Servant: Having completed approximately 50 hours of specialized training in Christ-centered care, and participating regularly in bi-monthly supervision meetings.
- A Trustworthy Companion: Your personal information and what you choose to share will be kept in strict confidence; when necessary, they will also assist in referring you to professional resources.
- A Steadfast Supporter: Meeting with you one-on-one for a fixed hour each week in a quiet, safe environment—listening to your story, offering companionship and support, and praying for you.
A Stephen Minister Is Not
A Stephen Minister Is Not
A Stephen Minister Is Not
- A psychological counselor, therapist, or professional advisor
- A problem-solver
- Someone who runs errands or handles household chores
- A casual visitor