InReach

Caring for Our Life Together

Inreach is how we care for the people, worship, and shared spaces of St. Stephen’s. Through prayer, hospitality, service, and faithful attention to the small things, these ministries help our parish community feel supported, connected, and welcome.

Whether you enjoy praying with others, preparing for worship, working outdoors, teaching children, or gathering people around a table, there is a place for you. No previous experience is necessary—just a willing heart.

Healing & Pastoral Care Team

Our Healing & Pastoral Care Team helps ensure that members of our parish feel supported through life’s joys, challenges, and transitions. Team members may offer prayer during Sunday worship, visit or call someone who is sick or homebound, deliver a meal, send a note of encouragement, or help plan healing services and labyrinth events.

This ministry is rooted in compassionate listening, prayer, and presence. You do not need to have all the answers—only a caring heart and a willingness to walk alongside others. Training and guidance are provided.

Altar Guild

The Altar Guild lovingly prepares our worship space for services throughout the year. Members care for the altar, linens, vessels, candles, flowers, and other details that help make our shared worship possible. New members serve alongside experienced volunteers, so no prior knowledge is needed.

Garden Ministries

Our Garden Ministries care for the outdoor spaces that welcome people to St. Stephen’s. Volunteers plant, water, weed, prune, and tend the grounds throughout the seasons. Whether you are an experienced gardener or simply enjoy being outdoors, we would love your help.

Fellowship & Hospitality Team

Our Fellowship & Hospitality Team creates opportunities for connection and helps make St. Stephen’s feel like home. Volunteers welcome guests, prepare refreshments, organize parish gatherings, and offer hospitality at special events. If you enjoy meeting people, sharing food, or working behind the scenes, this ministry is for you.

Children’s Chapel Volunteers

Children’s Chapel volunteers help our youngest members encounter God through Scripture, prayer, conversation, and creative activities. Volunteers serve alongside others and are given the resources and support they need. You don’t have to be a teacher—just bring patience, warmth, and a desire to help children know how deeply they are loved.

Lay Eucharistic Visitors

Lay Eucharistic Visitors bring Holy Communion and the care of our parish to members who are unable to attend worship. Through a simple visit, shared prayer, and the sacrament, they remind members of our community that they remain a cherished part of the Body of Christ. Training and authorization are provided.

Worship Volunteers

Worship is something we create together. Readers, ushers, greeters, servers, chalice bearers, and other volunteers help our services flow smoothly and make everyone feel welcome. There are opportunities for people of many ages, interests, and experience levels.

Find Your Place

Inreach reminds us that caring for our church is something we do together. Every gift matters, and every act of service strengthens our shared life.

Interested in joining a ministry or learning more? Contact The Rev. Sarah DiCarlo-Watts (sarah@ststephenshsv.org) and she can help get you plugged in.