A theological understanding of the Ordinary Means of Grace is what every Christian generation needs. This is particularly true in our day when so many churches have abandoned the Ordinary Means (preaching, sacraments, and prayer) for secondary means, church growth strategies, or programs. A clear understanding that there are particular means, or mechanisms that the …
CONTEXTS, CASES, AND CORE OF THE WORK Previously we have thought more broadly about this vital matter of pastoral care expressed in and by visitation, and considered who it is that is making the visit. In this third blog we will take a look at a variety of situations you will find yourself in and …
1 We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and …
Anglican priest Bill Shergold feared what might happen when he visited Ace Café, a notorious mid-20th century biker headquarters in England. But his fears never materialized. Instead, he received a warm reception and ended up holding biker services at which young riders could dedicate themselves and their motorcycles to God’s service. Indeed, Shergold found that …
The sixth beatitude is, “blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (5:8). To be “pure in heart” is to be holistically devoted to God in thought, word, and deed. In the Bible, the heart refers to seat of the will, which drives our decisions and commitments. For this reason, it is …
Ed and I had been meeting weekly for six weeks. Increasing anxiety had made work all but impossible and had driven him to seek help. Over the weeks I’d got to know Ed well, we’d explored something of his experience and story of anxiety, and we’d thought about his faith and how it related to …