Adult Christian Education
Adult and Youth Christian Education classes meet on Sunday at 9:15 AM, between the two morning services. Resources from the School for Contemplation and Discipleship are gathered alongside them. Full details, including the current term, are on the Adult Christian Education page.
Children & Youth Ministry
Faith formation for children and youth, from nursery through high school. Children belong in worship here, and the parish keeps Busy Boxes in the narthex, a Calm Room for children and caregivers who want a quieter space, and Sunday School classes during the year. See Children & Youth.
Community and Outreach
Partnering with Oak Ridge neighbors through food ministry, literacy programs, and neighborhood care. Outreach is one of the standing committees of the parish, and it is among the ministries you can volunteer for directly through the Time and Talent form.
The Parish Choir
A rich choral tradition sits at the heart of worship at St. Stephen’s. The choir sings at the 10:30 AM Choral Eucharist and at the great feasts of the year. They rehearse on Wednesday nights. All voices are welcome, and no audition is required to enquire.
The Lay Roles That Carry Worship
Much of what happens on a Sunday is done by members of the congregation, and the rota is published each month. Acolytes serve at the altar. Lectors read the appointed lessons. Eucharistic Ministers assist in administering Communion, and Eucharistic Visitors carry it to those who cannot be present. The Altar Guild prepares the altar, linens, and vessels before each service and clears them afterward. Ushers and Greeters welcome people at the door and receive the offering, the AV Team runs sound and the livestream, and Counters record the offering afterward.
Invite, Welcome and Connect
Newcomer welcome, hospitality, and parish connection, including coffee hour after the Sunday services. This is often the easiest place to begin if you are new and would like something to do that does not require training.
Pastoral Care
The pastoral care ministry supports members through illness, bereavement, and times of difficulty, alongside the clergy. Visits, home communion, and anointing can be arranged through the parish office. See Pastoral Care, and the weekly Healing Service on Tuesdays at 11:30 AM.
Giving and Support
Giving, pledging, planned giving, and sharing time and talent in support of the parish mission. The ways to give, and what a pledge does for the parish budget, are set out on the Give page.
Choosing a Ministry
The Time and Talent form lists the ministries currently looking for people: choir, altar guild, ushers, readers, outreach, coffee hour, pastoral care, children and youth, and Invite, Welcome and Connect. Tick whichever interest you, and parish staff route your name to the right leader. You are not committing to anything by enquiring.