STEPHEN MINISTRY is a one-on-one care ministry, always a woman to a woman and a man to a man. The training is excellent, it covers many facets of providing support and care to someone facing difficulties of any kind. Stephen Ministers aren’t counselors or problem solvers; they walk the journey, encourage, support and bring Christ’s unconditional love to those in need. There is a 50 hour training course taught on Thursday evenings beginning each fall. Stephen Ministers will be commissioned at the end of the 50 hours of training; the date depends on what holidays and vacation dates fall on Thursdays.