BeFrienders
Zion Lutheran Church Anoka
BeFrienders
Learn about our ministry of supportive, listening and caring friends for those going through a difficult time.
BeFriender program leaders train and support BeFrienders in offering care, a nonjudgmental presence, and active listening. BeFrienders receive training on topics such as grief and loss, spirituality, listening, confidentiality and communication.
BeFrienders also participate in regular small group meetings with the supervision of the BeFriender leadership team. The meetings provide accountability and growth and assist BeFrienders in their ability to listen, be nonjudgmental, and put aside their own prejudices or desire to give advice.
A BeFriender is someone who listens with compassion, accepts people as they are, respects another’s spiritual journey, and embodies the caring presence of God. BeFrienders provide pastoral care for people in all kinds of difficult and transitional situations. They are trained volunteers who extend the care of a faith community. BeFrienders provide pastoral care through a listening presence for anyone experiencing: hospitalization, cancer or chronic illness, families of deployed military, resident of a skilled nursing facility, addiction, post-partum depression, stress of being a caregiver, death of a loved one, loneliness, getting married or divorced, blending families, “empty nest” syndrome, becoming a parent or parenting challenges, relationship issues, being a victim of random violence, being abused or abusing others, imprisonment, major life decisions, relocation, job loss or career change, financial worries, buying or losing a home, trauma or natural disaster, Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, any other need for pastoral care.
If you would like to become a BeFriender or would like a BeFriender to talk with you about your situation of life, contact Pastor Sue Wallager through our general email or call the church at 763-421-4656.

Volunteer Opportunities
Family Promise
Our next Family Promise hosting date is May 21-28, 2023. Watch for announcements in early 2023 about a new Family Promise Day Center staffing site & static guest house.
Volunteers Needed at AMS
Opportunities are available at both Anoka Middle School campuses. Some occur in the building and others include prep work for projects that can be completed at home.
Meals on Wheels
Zion partners with area churches driving for Meals on Wheels and we take our turn every 6 weeks. There are 7 routes requiring a total of 35 volunteers each week.
Worship Involvement
Share your talents! We are in need of ushers, communion server & scripture readers at upcoming worship services Saturday at 5 pm and Sundays at 8, 9 or 11 a.m.
CYF Ministries
Children, Youth, and Family (CYF) programs are always in need of dedicated volunteers like YOU! If interested, please call 763-421-4656 or e-mail a CYF team member.
Congregational Godparents
Congregational Godparents are present at the baptism of a child, pray for them daily and send cards (which are provided). Click for more information.
Category: Adult Announcements