Through our Caring Ministry, trained lay people in the church provide care in a variety of ways. They offer caring support to the congregation and community through listening, visiting, calling, sending notes, praying and meeting regularly with those who are going through a time of crisis or stress.
Deacons serve our community by being a point of contact with new members, by regularly being in touch with home-bound members and young adults.
The Pastoral Care Team is made up of lay people who are gifted and trained to visit folks in the hospital or care facilities, make phone calls to those recovering or just to check in, and write notes and cards. They extend the love of Christ and the love of this church in times of need and celebration.
Compassionate Christian listening with a Stephen Minister
"Being heard is so close to being loved
that for the average person they are indistinguishable."
—David Augsburger
Compassionate Christian Listeners, known as Stephen Ministers, are non-clergy members of our congregation trained to provide confidential, one-to-one care to those experiencing a difficult time in life, such as grief, divorce, job loss, relocation, chronic or terminal illness. We offer care, encouragement, emotional and spiritual support as needed.
We come from all walks of life, but we all share a passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to people during a time of need. We reach out with the love of God who brings healing and hope.
Stephen Ministry helps our pastors and congregation provide caring ministry for as long as people need it. If you feel that a Stephen Minister might help you, or If you know that a friend would benefit from Stephen Ministry (even if they are not a member of our congregation), tell them about us. You or they can email the Sunnyvale Pres Stephen Ministry anytime or call us at 1-408-412-9699.
“Our Stephen Ministers are highly trained listeners who walk alongside people in times of stress, transition, or hardship. Whether you’re going through a work transition, a relational challenge, grief after losing a loved one, or other rough times, I often, and highly, recommend people allow a Stephen Minister to accompany them on their journey. There’s just no need to go it alone!”
—Pastor Karin Hejmanowski
Our prayer teams offer one-on-one prayer support and lift up the prayer requests received throughout the week. Visit the Prayer page to learn more about these teams and submit your prayer request. We would be honored to support you!