A Listening Presence
“The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing, and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is the friend who cares.” – Henri Nouwen Out of Solitude
The BeFriender Ministry is a national, ecumenical organization that provides leadership training and program support for a listening ministry of lay pastoral car. The ministry is supported by donations, workshop fees and program products. The Foundation Principles of BeFriender Ministry are: God is present – Caring, not curing – Nonjudgmental presence – Active Listening.
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from having a trained BeFriender make visits, or if you are interested in learning more about this vital ministry, please contact Sarai Kretschman or another member of the BeFriender Leadership Team: Pastor Bill Hugo, Louise Roberts, Kathy Rosenberg, and Cheryl Fristad.