Stephen Ministry is a non-denominational Christian care-giving lay ministry founded by Dr. Kenneth Haugk, a Lutheran pastor in St. Louis, MO. At the encouragement of former St. Matthew pastor, W. Leigh Bell, Stephen Ministry was begun at St. Matthew in 1987. Eighty-nine St. Matthew members have received training since then.

Stephen Ministers receive 50 hours of training to provide care support for people who are experiencing challenges in life; death of a loved one, job crisis, separation, divorce, long-term illness and childbirth. Stephen Ministers receive training in grief and loss ministry, hospital visitation and support, listening skills, maintaining confidentiality, as well as appropriate use of community resources.

Anyone in need of receiving this care-giving support or would like to know more about the training can contact our church office. Members can refer themselves, church friends, parents or adult children who are experiencing a crisis in their lives. Care receivers are assured that their identity and dialogue are confidential.