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BeFriender Ministry

A Listening Presence

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Ministry Principles

BeFriender Ministry principles guide the ministry and characterize the pastoral care a BeFriender brings to others.  Honoring these principles supports and strengthens the befriending relationship.

comforting hand

God is present

BeFrienders are aware that they are in God’s presence when befriending someone and that the time shared is a blessing to both the person befriended and the BeFriender.

Caring not curing

BeFrienders accept people as they are without telling them how they should be, listen with compassion without giving advice, and allow others to make their own decisions without trying to decide for them. The care offered by BeFrienders provides an opportunity for those they befriend to make choices and grow.

Nonjudgmental presence

BeFrienders provide a sacred and safe space for someone to talk about their experiences, thoughts, and feelings without being judged or criticized.

Active listening

The value and healing potential of having one’s story heard is profound. BeFrienders actively listen by using communication skills that create an environment of respect and dignity.

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Virtual Foundations for BeFriender Ministry

Training for New BeFriender Leaders

October 18, 25, and November 1, 8
Virtual Workshop
Early Bird Discount ends September 13
Register October 18, 25, and November 1, 8

January 17, 24, 31 and February 7, 2024
Virtual Workshop
Early Bird Discount ends December 13
January 17, 24, 31 and February 7, 2024

See Complete Foundations for BeFriender Ministry Schedule

Download Foundations for BeFriender Ministry Information


Additional Virtual Events

September 28
Program Leader RoundTable

October 26
The Outsized Impact of Practicing Empathy and Kindness on Mind, Body and Spirit

Virtual BeFriender Candidate Training

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

Deb

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

Deb

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

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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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