Search
Search

Article Archives

Category: Pastoral Care

Sometimes It’s Hard to Listen

In some confession liturgies, the congregation asks forgiveness because “we have not heard the cry of the needy.” But, sometimes it can be really hard to listen. Karen Vine shares her experience of finding listening difficult.

Read More »

The One Who is Never Quite Good Enough

Do you know someone who is always obsessed with his or her sin and can never seem to accept forgiveness? Kathy Milans explains that your friend may actually be suffering from a psychiatric disorder known as scrupulosity and that there is help for this problem.

Read More »

Why Faith-Filled Depression is Better Than Pseudo-Holy Hope

What does a person really need when they are walking through a dark time? Duke Walker shares wisdom that faith-filled depression is better than pseudo-holy hope. Christian faith in the midst of depression is a faith that is grounded in the unchanging nature of God. This is the faith that walks through the valley with the knowledge that God goes with us. To hope for anything else is idolatry and contributes to the depth of despair rather than lifting one out of it.

Read More »

Good Things to Say to a Domestic Violence Survivor

Domestic violence is a widespread problem, but it can be shocking to encounter a situation in which a victim comes to you for help. Unfortunately, unhelpful and even damaging responses are far too common. This post details some of the best things people can say to domestic violence survivors and some advice on actions that actually are helpful.

Read More »

Bad Things to Say to a Domestic Violence Survivor

Domestic violence is a widespread problem, but it can be shocking to encounter a situation in which a victim comes to you for help. Unfortunately, unhelpful and even damaging responses are far too common. This post details some of the most common hurtful things people say to domestic violence survivors and some advice on things that actually are helpful.

Read More »

What is Spiritual Direction? A Training Opportunity!

Do you often experience people randomly telling you their entire life story? If there is an empty seat next to you, do people always seem to sit down and start talking? Do others often tell you their faith stories without necessarily being prompted? You may want to read this post! Laura Beach gives an explanation of what a Spiritual Director is and what they do, and she offers a great opportunity for training.

Read More »

We Are Not Enemies

Even when we pray for God to help us love someone, are we not really praying for God to change that person and make him or her easier to love? But what if I am the one in need of a change? Patricia Taylor shares insight on loving others in the midst of disagreement.

Read More »

Tips for Talking With Children about Death

How in the world can we talk with our children and help them understand death when we don’t understand it ourselves? The topic makes us uncomfortable and afraid. It touches pain inside our own hearts from the questions we have that remain unanswered. Ellen Martin offers helpful, solid advice for helping our children death with death and grief.

Read More »