Welcoming All to Encounter Christ & Setting Hearts Aflame with the love of Christ

Ministries, Activities, & Events to Encounter Christ

“I invite all Christians, everywhere, at this very moment, to a renewed personal encounter with Jesus Christ…I ask all of you to do this unfailingly each day.” – Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium

Part of the mission of St. Stephen the Martyr is to be a community for all…to encounter Christ. This encounter with love is often experienced over and over again throughout a journey of faith. At St. Stephen the Martyr, we aim to offer as many opportunities for you to encounter the love of God as we can as the first two steps on the Clear Path to Discipleship.

God is eagerly awaiting a closer relationship with you! 

Browse the opportunities below for you to encounter Christ at St. Stephen the Martyr. Your participation, gifts & talents, and perspective are vital to the well-being of your parish. Please feel welcome get involved in what interests you.

  • Sunday Coffee & Donuts

    Assist in preparing, serving, and cleaning up coffee, juice, and donuts after each Sunday morning Mass in the Dining Room. Click here to sign up here.

  • New Parishioner Welcome

    Call new parishioners and welcome them to our parish, and follow up with a handwritten mailed note. Contact Adam Ybarra, Director of Mission at a.ybarra@stephen.org. 

  • Decorations / Environment

    Assist in caring for flowers and plants, especially at Christmas and Easter. Contact Sam Jizba at 402-861-4512 or s.jizba@stephen.org.

  • Landscape Ministry

    Help maintain the contemplative atmosphere of our parish grounds, assisting with landscape and planting projects, coordinating Parish Grounds Cleanup events and providing assistence with other beautification projects. Contact: Steve Cinnamon at omaspice@gmail.com.

  • Votive Candle Replenishment

    Help provide the “light” for others’ intentions. Replace the votive candles in the Daily Mass Chapel on a regular basis. Contact: Melissa LaPesh at (402) 598-8879 or meli3773@ymail.com.

  • Linens

    Wash and iron linens. Repair altar linens, albs, and stoles as needed. Contact: Sue Klopp 402-203-4940 or Sam Jizba at 402-861-4512 or s.jizba@stephen.org.

  • Summer Tailgates

    Gather as a community to picnic in the south parking lot. Events include dinner made by the Knights of Columbus and often include other entertainment like Bounce Houses for the kids or Live Music/DJ. Contact Adam Ybarra, Director of Mission at a.ybarra@stephen.org to help with planning. 

  • Primetimers

    This Men’s and Women’s group (age 55+) gathers for fun social events, special projects, and support.
    Email stephens.primetimers@gmail.com to be added to our email list & be informed of upcoming events!

  • Gather: A Dinner Group for Widows & Widowers

    This group gathers monthly for dinner at a rotating location (attendees usually choose a local restaurant) to provide support for each other as they navigate life after losing a spouse. Visit https://stephen.flocknote.com/gather to join their email list & receive updates. You are very welcome! 

Parish Retreat

Attend our yearly parish retreat. Serve those attending the annual Parish Retreat, usually scheduled for the first weekend in December. Contact Adam Ybarra, Director of Mission at 402.861.4507 or a.ybarra@stephen.org

  • Trunk-or-Treat

    Religious Education and St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic School Home & School Association come together to host an annual Trunk-or-Treat event. Watch for dates around Halloween!

  • Breakfast in Bethlehem

    St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic School Home & School Association hosts this annual event in conjunction with the Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast each December. This event celebrates St. Nicholas Day and prepares our younger parishioners for the coming of Jesus. Adults enjoy the free specialty coffee cart, too!

  • Easter Egg Hunt

    Religious Education and St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic School Home & School Association host this annual event on Divine Mercy Sunday. Children enjoy face-painting, live bunnies to pet and hold, and an Easter Egg Hunt on our school field!