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Kind, caring, compassionate, a good listener - these are words that describe a BeFriender, and
these are also words that describe Lowell Thomas, one of 2004's "graduates" of Redeemer's
BeFriender Training Program. Margaret Johnson, one of the leaders of the BeFriender Program
at Redeemer, says that Lowell is "proof of the excellent people at Redeemer who get involved."
Lowell, a native of Lynchburg, Virginia, is a graduate of Liberty University with a Master's
degree in counseling. A licensed private counselor, he currently works for Antrim Blue
Cross/Blue Shield. Since 1996, Lowell and his wife, Carla, have moved from Lynchburg to
Richmond to Charlotte, North Carolina, and back to Richmond, thanks to a series of job
transfers - some his, some hers. Carla, who also holds a Master's degree, works in the
long-term health care field.
At last year's Stewardship Fair, Lowell just happened to see some information describing
the BeFriender Program. He stopped to talk with Margaret Johnson and was "hooked"
because he felt that the program most closely fit his strengths. After successfully
completing the training required, which included topics such as grief and loss, spirituality,
aging, listening, confidentiality, communication, and ministry during illness, Lowell has not
changed his mind. He does admit, however, that it is sometimes a challenge for him as a
BeFriender not to fall into the role of a counselor. Lowell, who believes that one can
always learn something new, has only good things to say about the BeFriender Training Program.
He pronounced it comprehensive and thorough, a very good program.
Now that he is hard at work as a full-fledged BeFriender, Lowell made this comment,
"Being a BeFriender can afford the distinct privilege of a glimpse into the 'window of
the soul' of one who may be at the most difficult place in their life's journey. There is
nothing more spiritual than this for both individuals involved." BeFrienders and those
who have been befriended would agree wholeheartedly with this statement.
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