Spiritual Neighboring 101

One and a half day training for lay (and ordained) leaders on how to provide spiritual support to our neighbors in need led by Rev. Elizabeth Mae Magill (Liz). This training is applicable to those working with anyone living on the margins of society, such as neighbors that are: unhoused, food insecure, living with mental illness and/or addiction, justice impacted, refugees, and (im)migrants.  

This hands-on course will cover how to assess the environment, find your particular role in this relationship, and then to become a companion to a person in need. We will role play, discuss situations you may face and try-on skills for growing your ability to care for your neighbor. The training will include the basics of approaching strangers, establishing boundaries, and safety, as well as skills of deep listening and spiritual care.

This Spiritual Companioning model was developed by Craig Rennebohm and described in his book Souls in the Hands of a Tender God. The chapter Relational Ministry: Ministry with People who are Without Homes and Who are Food Insecure in the book Injustice and the Care of Souls: Taking Oppression Seriously in Pastoral Care (Fortress Press, Second Edition 2023) is based on this course and Rev. Elizabeth Magee's street ministry experiences.

This training will take place on Saturday, October 18th between 9AM-4:30PM and Sunday, October 19th between 11:30AM-2:30PM (directly after church). Both sessions will take place at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge. (4500 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033)

The training is free but space is limited, so please register as soon as you are able and let us know if you won't be able to make it to help with planning. If you're a "maybe" or registering for more than one person, there's a space to indicate that below. 

A lite breakfast and snacks will be provided Saturday, lunch will be provided on both Saturday and Sunday.