Melissa Fisher grew up in a churchgoing home, but her childhood included family turmoil, her parents’ divorce, and sexual violations that she kept secret. While attending a Christian college, she faced her same-sex attraction (SSA) and fought against it but became involved in same-sex relationships. Eventually, she left the church and married her female partner. Her book, The … [Read more...]
10 ways to pastor adoptive parents and those considering adoption
There are many ways that you can express your pastoral care for those considering adoption and those who have adopted already. As an adoptive father and former pastor, I offer a few thoughts on how to help adoption become a biblically based, heart-led, missional movement in your church and not merely another program on your church’s list. 1. Develop your own heart for the … [Read more...]
Post-sermon, care ministry: How our church does it
An interview with Tom Haren Tom Haren oversees the care ministry at NewSpring Church at its Anderson, SC, campus. He shared with us how NewSpring uses trained volunteers to minister to people who respond to the invitation or challenge following worship services. Caring for people at a growing church can be a real challenge, but we hope this approach stimulates you to think … [Read more...]
How care teams can deepen your church’s ministry to needy people
Pastoral crises come to every church. In his 30 years as lead pastor at New Life Presbyterian Church of Dresher, PA, Ron Lutz saw how care teams can provide a deeper level of support for people requiring extended and intensive care. He answers some questions about how care teams work: What is a care team? Care teams serve in pastoral situations where the needs require … [Read more...]
7 ways to use CareLeader.org in your ministry
We’ve been producing CareLeader.org for just over a year now. During that time a number of you have let me know how you’re using CareLeader.org to equip your own care leaders. I’ve listed a few of your ideas (and a few of my own) to come up with seven ways you can use CareLeader.org’s content in your church. Preparation for counseling sessions: If you went to seminary, … [Read more...]