BeFriender Ministry

Details

Last Updated on Monday, 16 July 2012 14:45

      The After People

What do you do AFTER: After you find the pink slip in what’s now your final paycheck. After the doctors have said there’s nothing more they can do. After the relationship ends but the wounds are still bleeding. After family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out. That’s when BeFriender Ministry steps in.  Batavia United Methodist Church has just completed training 25 people who have made a commitment to become a BeFriender as a part of a new caring ministry here at church. BeFriender Ministry is a free and confidential ministry which serves people who are struggling with a special need or going through a difficult time in their lives.  They are paired with lay persons who have received training to bring support and care. A BeFriender is someone who is going to come along side you in the midst of your troubled times. If you want to talk with them, you can.  If you just want to sit and cry, that’s fine.  If you want someone to listen and be a non-judgmental presence, a BeFriender is there just for that purpose. BeFriender Ministry is based on four foundational principles:  God is present (in every visit we can know that where two or three are gathered, God is in their midst. Prayer, if desired, is offered) Caring, not curing (BeFrienders are not counselors, but rather people who seek to be a listening presence with those who have needs) Nonjudgmental presence (BeFrienders will not make judgments or offer advice, but rather come along side as you share your present struggles) Active Listening (BeFrienders are trained to be good listeners, not talking about themselves, but rather being attentive to your needs as you share) Typical situations where a BeFriender may be of help: Grief, Parenting challenges, Job loss/career change, Loss, Imprisonment, Buying/losing a home, Transitions, Getting Married, Relocation, Cancer or chronic Illness, Alzheimers, Stress of caregiving, Divorce or separation, Financial Concerns, Death of a loved one, Abuse, Addictions, Loneliness.
Befrienders are trained individuals who will be a listening presence and come along side of those in need. They will offer support from their faith community, there will be an assurance of confidentiality, they will accept people as they are and listen with compassion.
For more information contact Pastor Gary. If you feel that God has called you to come along side people in times of need, yet feel that you aren’t adequately prepared to do this, Befrienders may be a place to develop those skills and share in a ministry of Congregational Care.