The power of pastoral presence
Nurturing and developing souls—that’s the heart of a pastor’s calling. This issue offers honest and practical help with this central call.
What does it mean to give spiritual care? It’s not meeting people’s needs, says Eugene Peterson; pastors are in
The Business of Making Saints (p. 20).
Ever felt a little insecure about offering counsel? Rob Morgan believes you have something to offer; see Why Pastors Make Great Counselors(p. 29). Perhaps you’ve struggled with how to care for people when relationships have grown cold. Gary Preston warns us to resist doing what comes naturally in Staying Close to Your Enemies (p. 32).
Psychologist Larry Crabb tells why soul care should return to the church—and how it can—in Where Healing Belongs (p. 37).
Pastoral work can be draining to the caregiver. This issue also offers advice about protecting your health while caring for others. Donna Schaper offers relief from Hospital Fatigue Syndrome (p. 44), and inChronically Wounded and Needy (p. 46) Matt Woodley answers the question, “How can we minister to those with protracted, deep needs without feeling chronically tired and used up?”
Closing treats include Dietrich Bonhoeffer on How Satan Tempts Your People(p. 53) and a special photo essay, Pastoral Care in Paradise(p. 55), which captures the essence of pastoral care—a genuine devotion to the flock.
-The Editors
1997 by Christianity Today/Leadership Journal.
