Stephen Minister Spotlight: Meet Jessica Keene

Jesus calls us to serve and care for others. One way to do that at WCC is by serving as a Stephen Minister. Stephen Ministers care for others experiencing hardship, such as marital problems, work instability, grief and loss or health issues.

Typically for about an hour a week, Stephen Ministers display the love of Christ as active listeners for their care receivers, allowing Christ to be the one who heals. The length of support lasts as long as needed and the format of interaction may vary depending on the relationship.

“I’ve always had compassion and a stirring in my heart for other people, and I wanted to grow deeper in the knowledge of being there for others biblically,” said Jessica Keene, a Stephen Minister. “When I was asked to be a Stephen Minister, I didn’t hesitate.”

“Walking alongside someone who is going through a life-altering experience is very humbling,” Jessica continued. “Sometimes I feel I am not enough to care for someone else, or I don’t have the knowledge or words. Those are self-doubts, but I know that through Christ’s guidance I am more than enough. I may be the caregiver, but Christ is ultimately the cure giver.”

Jessica has seen the rewards of this sacrificial care and says serving as a Stephen Minister has made her more vulnerable, has encouraged her to dig deeper into God’s Word and has deepened her connection to God through prayer. The role has also shown her firsthand the effect she can have when she shares God’s love with others.

“Being a Stephen Minister is a life-changing experience and something that you will be forever blessed by,” Jessica concluded. “Our battles aren’t to be fought alone. We all need people in our lives who can be there as a listening ear through life’s challenges. Caring for and loving others is a gift that needs to be shared.”