Listening with Love

This book is to be used for the class "Listening with Love."
As faith leaders (both clergy and laity), we are called to embody the love and compassion of Christ in all we do, especially in caring for those who are hurting and in need. The Apostle Paul reminds us, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God" (2 Corinthian 1:3-4). It is in this spirit that we are excited to introduce "Listening with Love: Foundations of Pastoral Care."
Listening with Love is designed to equip faith leaders with practical skills and perspectives to provide Christ centered, compassionate, effective pastoral care with those in congregations and communities who are struggling: from trauma, health issues, mental illness, loss, financial issues, addiction... whatever is causing distress. Jesus himself modeled the utmost compassion for the brokenhearted, the outcast, and the afflicted. He listened without judgment, offered hope and healing, and always pointed people to God's unfailing love. As his disciples, we too must learn to listen with love - with genuine empathy, patience, and grace.
Through this training, you will:

• Gain biblical foundations for a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to pastoral care.
• Develop active listening skills to engage empathetically and guide others to their own solutions.
• Practice motivational interviewing techniques to help others navigate challenges and changes in their lives.
• Describe the impact of bias and stigma that can be common barriers to providing effective pastoral care.
• Learn to incorporate centering prayer to connect with God and to divine guidance in caregiving relationships while acknowledging pastoral caregivers' own need for spiritual renewal.

Imagine the transformation in your church and community as you and your ministry leaders gain competence and confidence in providing pastoral care. Envision the unique opportunity to embody the compassionate and restorative love of Christ, The Great Shepherd, by providing hope and support for healing and transformation of individuals and communities.
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