Happy 35th Birthday, Stephen Ministry!

When life takes an unexpected turn... Stephen Ministry is there.

For 35 years, Stephen Ministry has been a steady presence—offering care, encouragement, and Christ-centered support not only to the people of Church of the Shepherd, but to the entire St. Charles community.

What is Stephen Ministry?

It’s one person walking beside another through life’s storms. As one care receiver put it:

"A caring, Christian friend who listens, cares, prays, supports, and walks with you through a difficult season."

Another shared: “Someone who shows up week after week—as long as it takes.”

Stephen Ministers are everyday people with extraordinary hearts—specially trained through 50 hours of preparation to offer emotional and spiritual care in times of grief, loss, illness, addiction, and other challenges.

Today, we give thanks for every Stephen Minister—past and present—who has said "YES" to this sacred calling. Thank you for showing up. For listening. For praying. For loving.

You make the love of Christ real.

Happy 35th Birthday, Stephen Ministry—here’s to many more years of faithful care! Join us in worship on 8/30-31 as we say, "Thank YOU!" and celebrate!