For anyone seeking an accessible introduction to Christian pastoral care, this short guide offers a practical introduction to caring for congregations and communities.
For anyone seeking an accessible introduction to Christian pastoral care, this short guide offers a practical introduction to caring for congregations and communities.
All disciples of Jesus Christ are called to care for one another whether they have a formal role or not, and exercise pastoral care by listening, encouraging, comforting, offering practical help, praying. In times of crisis and in everyday life, good pastoral care people feel known and loved by God, and valued in the church.This short, yet comprehensive guide lays a biblical foundation for good pastoral care, offers a theological approach to understanding people, considers the particular needs of the sick, children and families, and those in difficult circumstances, and outlines the boundaries within which all can be safe. Throughout, examples and questions for reflection will deepen understanding and enrich practice.
'By a country mile, this is the best book on the subject which I have read in years.' -- Church Times
'It’s not very often you score a book at eleven out of ten. This is an excellent guide to pastoral care.' -- The Baptist Times
'This is a wise, sensitive and very important book… it provides a long overdue recognition that pastoral care is one of the essential marks and gifts of Christian ministry.' -- Bishop Christopher Herbert
‘This book is a timely reminder of the importance and power of good care, reflecting God’s love, through the community of faith.’ -- Revd Clare Downing
‘Caring for others is the task of every Christian… Michael Hopkins is to be congratulated on producing such an excellent guide to pastoral care.’ -- Revd Dr Paul Beasley-Murray
‘A tool for churches, groups and individuals, in any Christian tradition… based upon sound theological foundations and pastoral experience. I thoroughly recommend it.’ -- Revd Graham Carter
Michael Hopkins has more than twenty years’ experience of pastoral ministry in the URC and ecumenically. He studied at Durham, Oxford, Birmingham, and Chester, and has trained those preparing for ministry at ministry at Westminster College Cambridge, Sarum College, and on the URC Lay Preachers course.
This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.