Serve

Faith in Action

At St. Stephen’s, service is not simply something we do, it is part of who we are as followers of Jesus.

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus shows us that love of God and love of neighbor cannot be separated. He welcomes the stranger, feeds the hungry, cares for the sick, and kneels to wash his disciples’ feet. In doing so, Jesus reveals that true greatness is found not in status or recognition, but in humble, generous love.

We do not serve to earn God’s favor. We serve because God has already loved us abundantly. Service is our grateful response to that love and one of the ways God’s grace becomes visible in the world.

Our Baptismal Covenant calls us to seek and serve Christ in all people, love our neighbors as ourselves, and respect the dignity of every human being. Each time we offer a meal, tend the altar, pray with someone, welcome a newcomer, teach a child, or care for our shared spaces, we live more deeply into those promises.

Scripture reminds us that we are the Body of Christ. Each person brings different gifts, and every gift matters. Some forms of service are public, while others happen quietly behind the scenes. Together, they strengthen our parish and extend Christ’s love into the wider community.

There is no single right way to serve. Whatever your age, experience, schedule, or abilities, there is a place for you. Come discover where your gifts, your joy, and the needs of others meet.

Inreach and Outreach

We live out our call to serve in two closely connected ways:

Inreach is how we care for the people, worship, and shared life of St. Stephen’s. These ministries nurture our parish and help create a community where people feel known, supported, and welcome.

Outreach carries that same love beyond our walls. Through prayer, relationships, financial support, and hands-on service, we join God’s work in our neighborhood, our diocese, and the world.

Whether we are caring for someone within our congregation or serving a neighbor we have not yet met, we trust that Christ is present in every encounter.