When is the time right to ask for a Stephen Minister? Is it only when facing death or lingering illness and loneliness? Of course, these are obvious life concerns which need to be shared.

But there are many other times of change when a confidential, caring listener can share your burdens. The following list is not inclusive, but suggests a wide variety of occasions where a Stephen Minister will be of help.

People who:

move in and out of our community

grieve a death or serious loss

are prisoners, ex-offenders and their families

experiencing birth or adoption

are sick or hospitalized

are terminally or chronically ill

care for someone else in difficulty

are lonely

are separated or are in the process of divorce (before, during, or after)

are single parents

have handicapped children or family members

have someone in a nursing home

have children leaving home for college, marriage, or work in another geographical area

are inactive in the church and are looking for a way back to the church

have suffered a significant financial setback or job loss 

are affected by a natural disaster

deal with unsettled family relationships

need a Christian friend

face life transitions

experience spiritual crisis