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Guide for Ministers
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- 7.1 Objectives and guiding principles
- 7.2 Limits of pastoral care
- 7.3 Pastoral care bound to a ministry
- 7.4 Pastoral care without a ministry
- 7.5 The pastoral care discussion
- 7.6 Confession
- 7.7 Pastoral care for ministers
- 7.8 Instruction for children
- 7.9 Youth care
- 7.10 Pastoral care for special groups
- 7.11 Care of members who live far away
7.5 The pastoral care discussion
In the pastoral care discussion, the ministers address believers on a personal level. The content of the conversation is strictly confidential. In the process, the ministers are to attune themselves to respond to the needs of their conversation partners. They are called upon to listen attentively and patiently. They will make the endeavour to strengthen faith in God, and in His support and help.
Faith is a significant component of the pastoral care visit. Subjects of discussion can include topics from divine services, experiences of faith, and questions concerning the doctrine.
If the ministers feel it a necessary element of their responsibility, they will provide advice in a pastoral capacity. Ministers offer to pray together with the members. In the process, they bring to expression their thanks, as well as the concerns that have been discussed. They will also continue to intercede in prayer on behalf of the members.
In the case of serious concerns, it may be appropriate to involve higher ranking ministers. However, this can only happen with the express agreement of the members in question.[78]