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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.
The meaning of the logo
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Water
The life-giving water pictured near the bottom suggestsrefreshment, cleansing and healing. After Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan, all baptized Christians were called forth to proclaim the saving power of God and to offer a healing, compassionate presence. BeFriender Ministry is one way to respond to that call.
Hands
The hands are represented in an intentional mutual grasp, suggesting trust and acceptance, as well as dignity and respect between the BeFriender and befriended. The grasp is firm yet gentle, allowing the freedom so essential in support.
Wheat
Wheat is a sign of the Eucharist or Holy Communion. BeFrienders and those they visit often experience a communion, a moment of grace, when in the sharing of the story, they experience a deep connection with one another and with God.
Church window
The whole picture is in the shape of a church window, a reminder that BeFriender Ministry is a way of being church with and for one another.
© 2007 BeFriender Ministry - A Listening Presence |
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