Does the phrase Pastoral Care come, perhaps, from the same root word that gives us the word “pasture?” Maybe, maybe not. But that possibility puts in mind of Christ caring for his sheep in a peaceful, health-giving setting. That is what we seek to do as Christ’s eyes, ears, arms and legs, heart and soul; in parish Pastoral Care we seek to do that for our congregation.

At St. Stephen's, pastoral care is a team ministry of clergy and lay people working together. This model of shared ministry allows us to offer greater support and care for our large congregation.

The St. Stephen's clergy, in addition to their sacramental, preaching, teaching, and administrative responsibilities, offer pre-marital counseling, provide support during relationship challenges, and are available at times of crisis, illness, or death. Their professional skills and training are an essential part of the pastoral care ministry here.

However, much of the day-to-day care and support would not be possible without the dedication of numerous parishioners. In concert with the clergy, these men and women offer their time and talent to serve in the various Pastoral Care ministries, including Care Teams, home or hospital Communion Visitation, and Grief Support.    

When to call your Clergy

Pastoral care is important to us, and we need your help to know when you need us. Here are some examples of when you might want to contact one of the clergy…

• When someone in your family is near death, call immediately. We want to provide spiritual support as your loved one approaches death. We want to be with you and your family, day or night, in the midst of your grief.
• When someone in your family is ill and has been hospitalized, call one of the clergy or the parish office. We will visit you in the hospital as soon as possible. With the new privacy laws, the hospitals no longer contact churches.
• When you or someone in your family is going to have surgery., call in advance. We'd like to visit you before, share in healing prayers, and bring communion if you wish.
• When you are having a crisis of faith, call and make an appointment to come and sit down for a conversation with one of our clergy.
• When you lose a job, or experience the death of a friend, or any significant loss… call.
• When a child is born. We'd like the opportunity to make a visit to bless both parents and child.
• When you would like to include your name on our prayer list.
• When something wonderful is happening in your life. We know it is important to share your saddest times, but we want to be with you in the best of times, too.

Contact the office or any of the clergy.  The clergy may be reached by calling 602-840-0437.  After hours, an office automated answering system gives an emergency number.