Pastoral Care In The Small Membership Church

by Killen, James L., Jr.

• ISBN13: 9780687343263
• ISBN10: 0687343267
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2005-05-15
• Publisher: Abingdon Pr

Summary

Small-membership churches have a real advantage when it comes to incorporating people into a fellowship where they are known and where their needs are met. These churches and their pastors have an opportunity for excellence in this area, and should make the most of it. Good pastoral care can be the key to effectiveness in all of the other ministries of the church. From getting acquainted with one's congregation, to weddings and funerals, Killen shares insights from years of ministry in a small-membership church setting. He describes the basics of pastoral care in a small-membership church; gives examples of typical mistakes a pastor might make and tips on how to avoid them; and focuses on the unique opportunity small-membership churches have to be caring communities.

Table of Contents

Preface	vii
1. An Opportunity for Excellence	1	(4)
2. Moving into Relationship	5	(6)
3. Learning the Art of Pastoral Conversation	11	(8)
4. Making Get-acquainted Visits	19	(6)
5. Visiting Shut-ins	25	(6)
6. Ministering to the Sick	31	(8)
7. Ministering to the Terminally III	39	(8)
8. Ministering to People Who Are Grieving	47	(6)
9. Holding a Funeral	53	(6)
10. Weddings, Baptisms, Confirmations, and Other Occasions	59	(8)
11. Pastoral Counseling	67	(8)
12. Helping with a Crisis	75	(4)
13. Dealing with Conflict in the Church	79	(8)
14. Maintaining Integrity	87	(6)
15. Providing for the Needs of the Pastor and the Pastor's Family	93	(6)
16. Involving Laypeople in Pastoral Care	99	(4)
Conclusion	103