What is pastoral care, anyway?
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It’s always a good idea to start at the beginning! When we look at the Bible, we see that the book of Acts introduces us to the ministry of pastoral care. The Good News of Jesus begins to spread quickly and churches grow as people embrace the gospel. As this happens, people are needed to oversee these budding congregations. Paul spent three years pastoring the church in Ephesus. As he gets ready to leave, he encourages the congregation and its leaders to continue to pastor: |
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"Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock, of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God that he obtained with the blood of his own Son. I know that after I have gone, savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Some even from your own group will come distorting the truth in order to entice the disciples to follow them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to warn everyone with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the message of his grace, a message that is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all who are sanctified."
Acts 20:28–32
Acts 20:28–32
Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus are also helpful in the understanding of pastoral care. Paul’s letters look to the future, with the goal of raising up other leaders. He teaches the doctrine of the church as well as the gospel. Paul’s goal is to keep the gospel central to the life of the church.
Peter also encourages pastoral care in the churches. Peter’s main concern is the heart of the pastor and encourages other leaders of the church to allow the gospel to shape their attitude to ministry. They are to be willing, generous, and eager servants as they exercise pastoral ministry among the congregation, all the while looking forward to the return of Jesus Christ.
Peter also encourages pastoral care in the churches. Peter’s main concern is the heart of the pastor and encourages other leaders of the church to allow the gospel to shape their attitude to ministry. They are to be willing, generous, and eager servants as they exercise pastoral ministry among the congregation, all the while looking forward to the return of Jesus Christ.
This is what our pastoral care team has been charged with exhibiting: a kind, willing and generous spirit, centered on the gospel. Our team is here to lead the charge in caring for our congregation. Along with Pastors Sara and Pastor Brent, these leaders are available to visit, talk and pray. They are an extension of our church, bringing the Good News of Jesus to those who need it most.
If you are in need of a listening ear, a prayer before surgery, a visit in the hospital or any other need, please let the pastoral care team know by calling or emailing Brent Higdem. We would be honored to be with you during your time of need. You can also call the church office at (501) 835-2201.
If you are in need of a listening ear, a prayer before surgery, a visit in the hospital or any other need, please let the pastoral care team know by calling or emailing Brent Higdem. We would be honored to be with you during your time of need. You can also call the church office at (501) 835-2201.