Pastoral care notes reflections
Last night I looked through all my notes from my pastoral care unit I did this semester. As I flicked through I re-read all the points that the lecturer really paid special attention to. I found it an interesting summary of some of the key points of the unit. Here they are…
Key #1 – We don’t follow Christ’s example in pastoral care. We don’t learn what He did and do it. We take on his yoke and partner in his work. He is already working in our midst. We just need to recognise it and join in.
Key #2 – Must approach all pastoral care from perspective of God working in the persons life. What is God doing or wanting to do? The Pastors role is to help facilitate this work.
Key #3 – Those doing the work of a Pastor are part of God’s putting people back together team at times. We come alongside people as equals and engage in what God is doing in the persons life.
Key #4 – Pastoral care works best in the context of genuine two ways relationships. When both parties are open to each other. ie Larry Crabb – both chairs facing each other.
Key #5 – Pastoral care works best in community of faith. We are all peices of a jigsaw and we need each other to find that answers to our problems. Some are holding a piece and some have the place for it to go.
Key #6 – Let Scripture speak to the person. Rather than quote Scripture at someone. Give them a passage to read for “homework” and allow God’s Spirit to speak to them as they read and reflect on it. Discuss at next meeting.
Key #7 – Never jump to conclusions. Always allow the person to speak fully and really listen to their story. Each person is unique and sees problems from different angles. There is no one size that fits all solution to pastoral care and counselling.
Key #8 – Remember to draw aside like Jesus did. You can’t solve all the problems of the world. Need to take time out to reflect and seek God. Answers and guidance comes during these times. You also learn what to be involved with. ie Jesus only doing what he saw the Father doing.
