The Attention Givers
There are many people who have no one. Therefore, we need Attention Givers that dare ask the difficult questions and speak words of encouragement.
Whether you're a new or experienced elder, let's use this place to compare notes, share experiences, and ask questions about being an elder in the CRC.
Write your own blog post to share your ministry experience with others.
There are many people who have no one. Therefore, we need Attention Givers that dare ask the difficult questions and speak words of encouragement.
Even through times of deep depression, his ministry remained directed toward helping people in their struggles, encouraging them not to lose faith in God.
Change requires careful observation and preparation. Once you agreed on a certain program that necessitates the change, have you consistently backed the members who have been put in charge of it?
Sometimes I wish I had an in with God in such a way that I could read how He feels about me.
Youth is not always a time of innocence. Sins of our youth can be real. They can cling to us through subsequent years...
It is probably true that we, as denomination, are overwhelmingly family-oriented. The question may be asked: are singles sufficiently recognized and do they share realistically in pastoral care?
We thank God for whatever prosperity we may have. Compared to the Christians of Rome, we are rich people. But we all realize that it may not stay that way. Times of want may lie ahead.
As an elder, you cannot be expected to be an expert in this complex area of drug use. But chances are considerable that there are some addicted people in your district.
It's the same for all ages: we want to be liked. We are not proud of trying to look good. Still, the approval of people around us has its lure.
Paul, the apostle wrote: “Weep with those who weep.” We may assume that he did what he wrote. Look at that short sentence again. It's more than advice. Paul extends a challenge to us.
All believers have one gift in common: grace! It is the source of the other seven Christian gifts.
The great reformer, Martin Luther, was a man of towering conviction. But he also knew moments when faith seemed to have faded to a degree that there seemed nothing left.
Bereaved people need strength to cope with irretrievable loss. Perhaps we can start a discussion on these pages of our experiences in bringing Christian comfort.
What happens to our many young members-at-large?
The name: "Censura Morum." The name and practice have a nobler origin than it would appear...
For you to do your work as a care-giver you need a record-keeping system. In case you don't have one yet, here are some hints.
It would be interesting to see how our churches across the continent select the elders and deacons of their council. Whereas in a by-gone age the procedure was fairly uniform, there is now considerable variety.
It has not happened yet. But my mind pictures it, the bad thing that may happen. I experience some of it as if it is already happening.
To be a balanced person is to deal with problems and tasks, but also to safeguard happy thoughts, cherish good moments, and have fun.
Two short words, but behind them a world of regret.
What guidance do children and youth need from parents and the church in navigating the internet?
Inactive members deprive themselves of spiritual blessings, the more since their contact with the congregation will likely be minimal. And churches need their service. What can churches do about this sad reality?
Have you watched people having an animated conversation? Every event related with gusto leads to reciting similar events. Observations, remarks, assertions, and comments outdo each other and are plowed under by further talking.
Ministry to the sorrowing is a worthy part of an elder's calling. But you may well think of it as a difficult task. Here are some thoughts you may consider helpful.