St. Philip the Apostle

Those who are sick or homebound can often feel isolated, lonely, and disconnected from the parish.  Friendly Visitors help by establishing and maintaining regular social interaction and by sharing their gifts of conversing and listening.  The role of the Friendly Visitor Program is to be present to the care recipients as they attempt to find God in their life situation, by listening to them.  Christian presence is the gift that the Friendly Visitor brings. 

Although each case is unique, volunteers make visits on the average of once a week for one hour.  Friendly Visitors always make these visits in pairs, and observe confidentiality, respect of the person, and acceptance of care receivers for who and where they are.

• be at least 18 years old.
• be confirmed and in good standing in the Church (abiding by the Precepts of the Church)
• be certified in the Diocesan Safe Environment program.
• have transportation.
• be compassionate and empathetic.
• be trustworthy.
• be faithful to the teachings of the Church.
• perform regular spiritual practices in addition to weekly Mass (e.g., prayer, study, regular confession, etc.).
• accept people as they are.
• be responsible and accountable.
• be willing to learn new skills

1. Watch for updates in parish media regarding open application windows.
2. Fill out an application and submit it before the end of the application period.  Please remember: the first step in becoming a Friendly Visitor is certification in our Diocesan Safe Environment program.  If you have not participated in this program or are unsure of your status, please CLICK HERE to learn more.
3. After applications are reviewed, applicants may be asked to interview with a panel of individuals who have been Friendly Visitors.
4. Applicants who are a good fit for the program will proceed with training (group training session).
5. Group meetings will be held periodically with all of the Friendly Visitor volunteers so that support, encouragement, friendship, and fellowship can be developed and fostered.