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BeFriender Ministry

A Listening Presence

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BeFriender Ministry

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When someone feeling alone and isolated experiences a caring connection;

when a woman with an aging parent suffering from dementia can share her story with a listening presence;

when a patient with a life-threatening illness can talk about his fears to a caring ear;

when an abused woman finds comfort in safely telling her story to a nonjudgmental listener;          
-that is the power of BeFriender Ministry.

BeFriender Ministry is a national, ecumenical non-profit organization that provides leadership training and ongoing support for a listening ministry of care and support in churches, hospitals, senior living communities including all levels of care, or other organizations.

Since the early 1980’s BeFrienders have been providing skilled pastoral care throughout the nation.

Headshot of Mari Taffe

Mari Taffe

BeFriender
Basilica of St. Mary
Minneapolis, MN
Spiritual Director

My experience of being in BeFriender Ministry has been profoundly life-affirming. When I first became part of BeFriender Ministry, I had no idea it would become one of the most important small communities in my life.

It is an honor to accompany a person on their journey, whether it is for one day, several months, or several years. I am changed because of being in the BeFriender Ministry. I have become a more intentional listener, more compassionate, more aware of the grace operating in our lives.

I have seen the grace that is God’s life, vitality, and love flowing through this ministry – BeFrienders and those they listen with go away changed. God is present as we give of ourselves in hospitality and relationship, hold hope for each other, and open ourselves to really hear one another.”

Mari Taffe

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Virtual Foundations for BeFriender Ministry

Training to serve as a BeFriender Ministry Leader

July 29, August 5, 12, 19
Early Bird Discount ends June 24
Register Now

September 24, October 1, 8, 15
Early Bird Discount ends August 20
Register Now

See Complete Foundations for BeFriender Ministry Schedule

Download Foundations for BeFriender Ministry Information


Additional Virtual Events

Listening with Heart: Navigating Conversations and Fostering Connections with Dementia
May 20, 2025

Virtual BeFriender Candidate Training
Fall 2025

Chaplain John

“The BeFriender teams on our campuses have been invaluable in doing phone ministry with fellow residents during this time of social isolation. Some campuses have divided their total population among the BeFrienders so that everyone gets an occasional call!”

Chaplain John

Pastor Dan

“I encourage any congregation to receive this training! It was well organized and very user friendly. We all feel prepared and excited to begin this Caring Ministry that we feel has the power to transform our congregation.”

Pastor Dan

Deb

“We are living in a unique, stressful, anxious time that BeFriender Ministry is uniquely qualified to respond to.”

Deb

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BeFriender Ministry – A Listening Presence

1120 E 80th Street, Suite 105
Bloomington, MN 55420
952-767-0244

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