Periodically the National Office will hold Continuing Education sessions for program leaders and BeFrienders.
Current BeFriender Ministry National Office Events
Group Spiritual Direction
Barb Schwery, Executive Director of BeFriender Ministry will be facilitating Spiritual Direction groups for the BeFriender Ministry Community.
Refresh ⁕ Renew ⁕ Re-Energize
Support for Program Leaders
Barb Schwery, Executive Director and the Volunteer Program Team invite you to a Program Leader virtual gathering. Whether you are a new or seasoned BeFriender Leader, this time is for you!
Virtual BeFriender Candidate Training
Current BeFriender Ministry Leaders have the option for BeFriender Candidates to be trained by Barb Schwery, Executive Director of BeFriender Ministry.
Virtual Event: A Steady Presence-Listening and Caring in the Midst of Trauma
When someone shares a painful or traumatic experience, it can be hard to know what to say or how to help. This presentation offers a practical, easy-to-understand look at trauma and how it can affect the way people think, feel, and respond. We’ll explore how we can offer a calm, compassionate presence without feeling responsible for fixing the situation, as well as simple ways to care for ourselves after listening to difficult stories. The presentation will connect trauma-informed care with the BeFriender principles of God is Present, Caring not Curing, Nonjudgmental Presence, and Active Listening.