Pastoral Care: How To Start

"Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." Hebrews 13: 1 - 2.

Before the Pastor arrives the Interim Leadership Team (Barnabas Ministry Team) will conduct extensive research into the community in which the church will be planted. This will produce two significant results:

First, it will give the team an idea of the needs of the community at a macro level, e.g. healthcare needs, transportation, employment, food, etc.
It will also introduce those involved to the personal needs of those who they meet (micro level). Such meetings may take place in focus groups, interviews, or simply by interacting with people as the team digs deeper into the community.

It is important to document the needs, both at the macro and micro levels. Once the Pastor arrives and begins to recruit the Launch Team, it will be important to transfer knowledge of these community and individual needs. In addition, the sponsoring church may find opportunities to assist in Pastoral Care, especially in the time before the arrival of the Pastor.

If the sponsoring church has a Hospital Visitation or Stephen Ministry Program (or something similar) it will be a good idea to coordinate any temporary needs with them.

"The church's life as a community is a demonstration of what God intends for the life of the whole world. The practices of the church embody mutual care, reconciliation, loving accountability and hospitality. A missional church is indicated by how Christians behave toward one another." Dale Ziemer, Treasure in Clay Jars

Go back to Pastoral Care: Overview

Go on to Pastoral Care: First And Second Years

Last Modified 8/9/05 11:45 AM

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