Befrienders
Ministry of Befrienders 
Through baptism and confirmation, lay men and women have been given rights and responsibilities to participate in the mission of the church. In those areas of life in which they have special competency because of their particular talents, education and experience, they are an extension of the church’s redeeming presence in the world.
…Unless we truly live as the people of God, we will not be much of a sign to ourselves or the world.
From CALLED AND GIFTED: THE CATHOLIC LAITY Reflection of the U. S. Bishops,
Nov. 10-13,1980 National Meeting in Washington, D.C.
WHAT IS THE BEFRIENDER MINISTRY?
+A lay caring ministry in which one person reaches out to another in time of need
+An on-going helping relationship
+A meaningful way for our parish to use more fully our talents in sharing one another’s burdens and joys
+A one-to-one ministry by trained, caring parishioners
The first Befrienders at Guardian Angels Parish were commissioned in May, 1982.
WHO IS A BEFRIENDER?
A BEFRIENDER IS:
+Someone who believes that we all are called to share our gifts in caring, sharing and ministering to and with each other
+ “Being-A-Friend” especially to those in difficult situations, listening to and supporting them
+A caring Christian—desiring to offer his/her support to others in time of need
+A sharing Christian—bringing who she/he is to each helping relationship by being a companion to others in their life experiences
+A trained Christian—having developed his/her helping skills through intensive course work
+A dedicated Christian—commissioned by our parish to offer confidential caring
A BEFRIENDER IS NOT…
+A professional counselor or psychologist
+A social worker providing extensive physical services
+An expert in law, finance, church doctrine, etc.
TO WHOM DO BEFRIENDERS MINISTER?
+Those who are hospitalized
+Those who are grieving the loss of a loved one
+Those who are dying, as well as to the families of those who are terminally ill
+Those who are imprisoned
+Those who are in the Woodbury Health Care Center, other area Care Centers and Senior Residences where parishioners are residents
+Those who are in need of one-to-one ministry.
WHAT KIND OF COMMITMENT IS ASKED OF BEFRIENDERS?
Classes in preparation for Befriender ministry are held every other year either in the fall or in the spring. Candidates not only have their own ministry formation classes, but they also join the present Befrienders in their continuing education sessions.
Befrienders are consulted as to where they would be comfortable in ministry.
Depending on the ministry, a commitment of one to three hours per week can be expected.
Commitment to this ministry includes both being faithful in ministry as well as being faithful in attending the ministry formation classes and the ongoing sessions that follow.
Befrienders meet once a month. These meetings are for ongoing support, continuing education and supervision in this ministry. To provide adequate preparation, continuity of ministry, time and experience in becoming more confident and capable in this ministry, a one(1) year commitment to ministry is asked of Befrienders, beginning with commissioning. A recommitment may be made after the initial one-year commitment.
If you are interested in this ministry, please call Sister Dorothy Mrock at
738-2223, ext. 138.