What is a BeFriender Ministry?

The BeFriender Ministry is a lay pastoral care program.  That means specially trained lay persons enter into caring relationships with others at times of special need by visiting with them, being with them, and bringing emotional and spiritual support.

FSC's current BeFriender Ministers are Evie Bowers, Arlene Chettleburgh, Chris Creek, Andrea Darling, Betty Kronemeyer, Mary Moore, Mary Peterson, Jim Reed, Peni Reed, Fran Shaw, and Bob Taylor.  It has been great providing listening ears to those who have asked for a BeFriender Minister!  We are always open to new referrals!  If you are interested in training to become a BeFriender Minister, or would like to have a BeFriender Minister visit you, please contact Gigi Owen in the Church Office at either (616) 459-8386 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .  We are also excited about providing a fall training for those who would like to join our BeFriender team.  We are currently in the application and interview process.  The training will begin in October.  If you have an interest in being trained to provide this service, and we have not already talked to you about it, please contact Arlene Chettleburgh at either (616) 676-1273 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it as soon as possible.  The training is approximately 22 hours.  We would love to hear from you!  We all begin to get busier with the arrival of fall.  May yours be a blessed one!