Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counseling

Course code: PT518

Course instructor: Lee Eclov

Grace is the credential that lets us park close to people's hearts.When Christ calls a pastor He instills a kind of heightened instinct for grace; what we call a shepherd's heart. However, pastors often become disoriented by leadership demands, congregational expectation, and the wounds of ministry. They forget how to use the grace of Christ in the everyday work of pastoring.

Through striking word pictures and stories that resonate with every pastor, this book will reinvigorate pastors' instincts for practicing grace in the churches they shepherd. Whether you are training to be a pastor and wondering if you are called, a seasoned shepherd needing encouragement and affirmation, or simply someone who wants to encourage your pastor, you will appreciate the sage wisdom and confirmation poured out in the pages of Pastoral Graces.

Reading Assignment:

Pastoral Graces: Reflections on the Care of Souls by Lee Eclov

WEEK 1

Introduction

Chapter 1. Uncalled, Then the Hand in My Back

Chapter 2. Authority, Wisdom, and Grace. Especially Grace

WEEK 2

Chapter 3. Public Grace

Chapter 4. Public Grace Refreshed

WEEK 3

Chapter 5. Portable Grace

WEEK 4

Chapter 6. Decorating with Grace

Chapter 7. Building with Broken People

WEEK 5

Chapter 8. March into the Smoke

WEEK 6

Chapter 9. “I’d Have Waited All Night”

WEEK 7

Chapter 10.“Lead Me Gently Home”

Chapter 11. “Safe thus Far”

WEEK 8

Pastoral Service Manual

Part I: Congregational Worship Services

WEEK 9

Pastoral Service Manual

Part IV: Special Services for the Family