Ministers Desk 18th November 2012

One of the defining characteristics of the Christian church is the love that members show for each other.  Jesus said “I give you a new commandment: Love each other.  Just as I have loved you, so you also must love each other.  This is how everyone will know that you are my disciples, when you love each other.”  As we read through the books of the New Testament we see practical ways in which the early church sought to live this out.  They came to the realisation that being known as followers of Jesus was more than acknowledging a set of beliefs; it was living a lifestyle that put their beliefs into action.  “So you see that a person is shown to be righteous through faithful actions and not through faith alone” (James 2:24).

 

One way that we seek to obey Christ’s command is through our practice of pastoral care for everyone, by everyone.  For many years we have pursued a model of care that places the onus on every member of the congregation to be aware of opportunities to express love for others through visiting, phoning, sharing words of encouragement, helping others with practical tasks and ensuring that no member of the congregation feels isolated or without a fellow Christ follower to support them.  Even though this has been our goal I know that it happens sporadically, some people receive excellent care, whilst others find it lacking.  I believe that this model more accurately reflects Christ’s desire for his church, where each person was called to be a servant to others.  In the early church they were devoted to one another (Acts 2:42) and recognised that they belonged to each other (Romans 12:5).

 

As part of the congregation the ministry team are available to offer pastoral care.  At any time, if you feel that you’d like to speak to one of us about an issue, I encourage you to contact the church office and make an appointment.  Just as you would initiate a visit to a doctor, a solicitor or other professional when you had a need to see them, please feel free to take the initiative to speak to one of us.  I have heard at various times people who have been disappointed that when they’ve wanted to speak to a minister that they have not been contacted.  Yet, that same person has done nothing to invite a contact.  We are not mind readers and many times will be unaware of what you are thinking.

 

There are two ways to request a visit.

 

1.      On the reverse side of the care cards you can tick a box that says you’d like a visit from the ministry team.  Care cards are also included with the notice sheet and extras are kept in the church foyer.  If you tick this box, you will be contacted and a time for a visit will be made.

2.      You can ring the church office (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9 am to 2 pm) and make an appointment. 

You can ask to speak to someone specific and none of us will be offended if you ask to speak to someone in particular.  We will be happy to come to your house, a coffee shop or meet at the church.