Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry is an integral part of AGIF’s mission to equip global disciples to do what Jesus is doing.

Stephen Ministers provide confidential, one-to-one Christian care to individuals in our congregation and community who are experiencing difficulties in their lives.

Whether you are looking for a supporting person here in Shanghai or whether you feel uniquely called to care for others in a time of need, see below for more info on who might benefit from a Stephen Minister or how to become a Stephen Minister.

When and how do I get a Stephen Minister?

If you are experiencing any of the situations listed below, you would benefit from a Stephen Minister:

Transition
Loneliness
Unemployment or a job crisis
Divorce or separation
Spiritual crisis
Hospitalization

Loss of a loved one
A chronic illness
A terminal illness
Aging
Recovery after an accident or disaster
Relocation

There are three ways you can get a Stephen Minister:

Take a “Gather-Connect-Serve” card from the pocket in front of your seat at any of our weekend gatherings and tick “I’d like a Stephen Minister”
Talk to one of our Pastors or Stephen Leaders
Email stephenministry@agifshanghai.com

How do I become a Stephen Minister?

AGIF trains Stephen Ministers with 50 hours of training every fall, using high-quality curriculum provided by Stephen Ministry St. Louis in the U.S. We also provide ongoing support and supervision for Stephen Ministers.

Candidates must submit an application form that can be obtained here, and undergo a vetting process that includes an interview and reference checks. Look out for dates of the 2018 training course.

Stephen Ministry Application Form

For more information see the FAQs or Email stephenministry@agifshanghai.com

Additional Resources

For more information on resources in Shanghai for: drug/alcohol addiction, domestic violence/child abuse, children with special needs, mental health and more, please look at this SM Community Resources Fall 2014