Ministry principles

Ministry principles

BeFriender Ministry principles guide the ministry and characterize the pastoral care a BeFriender brings to others. Practice of these principles supports and strengthens the relationship between the BeFriender and the person befriended.

Active listening

There is a healing power in telling one's story. BeFrienders know the value of active listening skills, which are a critical component of training. BeFrienders listen with compassion.

Nonjudgmental presence

BeFrienders understand the importance of hearing another's story from that person's perspective. Respect and empathy allow them to listen and respond without judgment. BeFrienders accept people as they are.

Caring, not curing

BeFrienders are a living reminder of God's love. As companions, BeFrienders give those they befriend the chance to recognize, value, and use their own God-given, Spirit-led wisdom. BeFrienders respect another's spiritual journey.

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 people in the relationship. BeFrienders embody the caring presence of God.

Ministry principles | Program emphases