How do you ‘do’ pastoral care? Is it something that requires training? A hospital placement? A degree in theology? A specific calling? These things can be helpful. But I reckon much of it comes down to two things: curiosity – and compassion. 1. Curiosity: being interested in the person you’re with. Simple, eh? But not easy. At least, not for me.. Often, instead of listening, I’ll be talking to someone and thinking about myself. Waiting for the opportunity to wedge in …Read More
Summer’s here! Your body may be Beach Ready, but is your soul Preach Ready? Scared to strip off at small group? Sick of comparing yourself to the worship leader? Take Control and Fight the spiritual flab. It’s time to Take Back Your Temple – starting NOW. Try our NEW 40-day plan: You’ve nothing to lose, but your sins! Breakfast: Champions don’t just read their Bibles. They Do #Devotions, (now with 30% more Minor Prophets). Channel your spiritual qi by shouting “Jesus” “Preach it” each time you read …Read More
I just tell it like it is. (I’m rude. I don’t care enough to think about your feelings before opening my mouth) I have to be true to myself. (I’ll do what I want and stuff the consequences) It’s just the way I am. (It suits me to be like this. I don’t want to change and therefore I “can’t.”) Can I be honest with you? (Let’s drop the pretence of being nice) With all due respect, (which is none..) …Read More
Things that make me anxious: Wasps. Small-talk. Admin. Deadlines. Phone-calls from numbers I don’t recognise, (Why are you calling me? Has somebody died?) And DECISION-MAKING. Given that each day is made up of choices, this can be a problem. Big ones (relationships, life choices, money etc). But small ones too. Blue socks or green? Muesli or Weetabix? Ordering a coffee: Barista: HihowareyoutodaywhatcanIgetyou? E: Oh – hi. Fine, I think. Actually I’m knackered. You? Great. Er – what did you ask me again? …Read More
