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A six-session certificate program
Dates coming soon

Training for Compassionate Visitors

Equipped to Care

I'm Interested

Compassionate visiting begins with listening well.

Learn to offer a caring presence, respond with empathy, and recognize the boundaries that support both the visitor and the person receiving care.

About the Program

Equipped to Care is an introductory program for clergy, pastoral visitors and callers, spiritual care team members, and anyone who wants to offer thoughtful spiritual and emotional support. Through interactive instruction, reflection, and practice, participants develop a foundation for caring for others in person, by phone, or by video.

How the Program Works

Start together, then put your learning into practice. The program includes an initial workshop, five  follow-up sessions, and opportunities to practice visiting or listening in your community.

An In-Person Workshop

Begin with a four-hour workshop focused on reflective listening, empathy, healthy boundaries, and the difference between a spiritual visit and a social visit. The location will be determined based on participant registration.

Zoom Meetings

Gather for five one-hour meetings to discuss course materials, reflect on your experiences, ask questions, and learn with others in the group.

Volunteer Practice

Spend four hours each month visiting or listening within your own faith community or at a local volunteer site—20 hours over the course of the program. Schedule this time to fit your needs.
Between meetings, participants will watch short videos, read selected materials, and complete brief reflections.

What You’ll Explore

Through shared reflection and skill practice, you’ll consider common situations spiritual visitors encounter and build confidence in how you respond.

❋ Reflective listening, empathy, and healthy boundaries

❋ Suicide prevention

❋ Learning from stories

❋ Cultural humility and social location

❋ Grief and loss

❋ Listening at the end of life

Contact Us

Program Details

Dates

Coming Soon

Format
Practice

One four-hour in-person workshop and five bi-weekly one-hour Zoom meetings

Location

Four hours per month in a faith community or local volunteer setting

Workshop location to be determined; follow-up meetings held on Zoom

Cost

$125

Grow Your Skills

Interested in the next Equipped to Care program? Dates and registration details are coming soon. Check back for updates, or contact us to learn more.

  • Who is Equipped to Care for?

    This introductory program is for clergy, lay ministers, pastoral visitors and callers, spiritual care team members, and others who want to strengthen their ability to offer spiritual and emotional support.

  • Where will the initial workshop be held?

    The in-person workshop location will be determined based on participant registration.

  • What will I do between sessions?

    You’ll explore short videos and readings, complete reflections, and practice visiting or listening in your community. Monthly Zoom meetings provide time to discuss what you’re learning and receive group support.

  • Can I pay by check?

    If you'd prefer to register by mail, you're welcome to send a check instead of registering online.

    • Amount: $125 (for all six sessions)

    • Payable to: Crossroads of Caring, Inc.

    • Memo line: Storytelling Program

    • Mail to: Crossroads of Caring, Inc., St. Mark’s and St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1245 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY, 14609

    Please be sure to include your name, email address, and phone number with your check so we can confirm your registration and send you the Zoom sign-up details.

  • What is your refund/cancellation policy?

    This program requires a minimum of 6 participants to run as scheduled. If the minimum enrollment isn't met, the program will be moved to a new date, and all registered participants will be notified. If the new date doesn't work for your schedule, we will issue a full refund.

    Because this is a live program with limited registration, refunds cannot be provided if you are unable to attend the scheduled sessions. However, all sessions will be recorded and made available to registered participants to watch at their convenience.

  • How will I receive my Zoom link?

    After purchasing your ticket on our website, you'll receive a follow-up email inviting you to register for the sessions through Zoom. Once you register there, Zoom will send you your personal, unique link to join each session.