Our Stephen Ministry theme for February is National Cancer Awareness Month: a time dedicated to raising awareness about cancer, supporting those affected by it, and promoting the importance of early detection and treatment. Cancer has had a profound impact on many of our church members, friends, and their families. Our Stephen Ministers are here to offer compassionate support to cancer patients, their loved ones, and those grieving the loss of a loved one.

Stephen Ministers are trained lay caregivers providing one-on-one, confidential care to those in need. They offer a listening ear, a caring presence, and spiritual support to help individuals navigate the emotional and spiritual challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. Whether you are a patient, a family member, or someone who has lost a loved one to cancer, our Stephen Ministers are here to walk alongside you during this difficult time.

We encourage everyone to do early and regular screening for various types of cancer, especially if you have a family history of the disease. And if that screening, or doctor’s visit, brings unexpected news, your Stephen Ministers can provide you and/or family members with emotional and spiritual support throughout the treatment decisions that must be made. Stephen Ministers can help people cope with the fear, anxiety, and uncertainty of this disease with a Christ-centered approach. By offering a safe space to express feelings and concerns, Stephen Ministers help patients find strength and hope.

For those grieving the loss of a loved one, Stephen Ministers can offer a comforting presence and a listening ear. We offer conversation that provides a non-judgmental space for individuals to share their feelings, memories, and struggles as they work through their grief.

Did you know that our church library has copies of “Cancer. Now What?” published by the founder of Stephen Ministry? It is written in 12-parts so you don’t need to read it from front to back to get the information you may be seeking. Check it out. And while you’re at it, look at the other Stephen Ministry resources available in the library for you to borrow and return.

Cancer can be a long and difficult journey for patients and family alike. Sharing a confidential conversation with a Stephen Minister makes a difference. It is our “ministry of presence” to let people know they are not alone.

To learn more about Stephen Ministry at RLC, click here. If you or someone you know who could use a listening partner, consider emailing the Stephen Leader team at and ask about how to make a referral to a Stephen Minister.