In any group of people, including churches, there will be people who unfortunately have experienced abuse – whether through family growing up, a previous or current relationship, or seeing a friend experience a controlling or abusive partner.
Keith and Sarah Condie, Co-Director’s of the Mental Health & Pastoral Care Institute, presented on this important issue at Vine Church, Sydney. They shared how we can recognise signs of physical, emotional and other forms of abuse, and respond well.
In their talk, the Condies referred to Safe Ministry resources – these are found here:
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, please call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, call 000.
How do you usually respond to someone who is wrestling with spiritual concerns? We’re likely to listen, pray, offer care, counsel, and comfort from God’s word. But (very) occasionally, this is entirely the wrong approach. That’s because the need for ongoing reassurance may indicate an underlying mental health condition known as scrupulosity – a sub-type of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
“I don’t know how to relate. What will I say? I don’t understand them!” Have you thought this about a different generation? This article from Amy Yeung suggests a framework that could help us care well, no matter what generation someone is from.
Pastoral care takes place in many different contexts and capacities. You might offer care to those in your family, your friendship network and your church community. A toolbox of resources can equip you in these various contexts and roles.
Caring is not so much about fixing a need or solving a problem – it’s about showing up and being there as a willing servant of Christ. It lets another know they are seen and valued.
