Resources
Pastoral Care Team:
Supporting Church Leadership
Course Overview
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This course provides comprehensive training on establishing and maintaining an effective Pastoral Care Team (PCT) within church communities. Designed for church leaders, board members, and potential PCT members, this course explores the fundamental aspects of pastoral support and care.
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Learning Objectives
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By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
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*Explain the purpose and importance of a Pastoral Care Team
*Identify critical components of successful PCT implementation
*Develop strategies for practical pastoral support
*Apply best practices in PCT member selection and team organization
*Implement confidentiality and trust-building measures
*Execute core PCT responsibilities and functions
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Course Modules
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Module 1: Foundations of Pastoral Care
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Week 1: Understanding PCT Basics
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*Introduction to Pastoral Care Teams
*Biblical foundations for pastoral support
*The dual role of pastoral ministry:
Nurturing the congregation
Equipping believers for the mission
*Assessment: Module 1 Quiz
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Module 2: PCT Purpose and Value
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Week 2: The Importance of Pastoral Support
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*Understanding pastoral challenges
*Benefits of Structured Pastoral Care
*Distinguishing PCT from other church committees
*Case Study: Successful PCT Implementation
*Assessment: Written Reflection
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Module 3: PCT Structure and Formation
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Week 3: Building Your Team
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*Team size considerations
*Member selection criteria
*Term lengths and rotation strategies
*Organizational structure
*Interactive Exercise: PCT Formation Planning
*Assessment: Team Structure Design Project
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Module 4: Essential PCT Characteristics
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Week 4: Core Team Values
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*Building acceptance
*Establishing trust
*Maintaining confidentiality
*Role-playing Exercise: Handling Sensitive Situations
*Assessment: Scenario-based Evaluation
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Module 5: PCT Mission and Responsibilities
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Week 5: Operational Framework
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*Active listening skills
*Support mechanisms
*Monthly meeting management
*Prayer support strategies
*Practical Exercise: Meeting Planning
*Assessment: Mission Implementation Plan
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Module 6: Practical Application
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Week 6: Implementation Strategies
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*Creating action plans
*Establishing communication channels
*Supporting pastoral families
*Managing continuing education
*Sabbatical planning
*Final Project: PCT Implementation Blueprint
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Course Delivery Methods
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*Interactive discussions
*Case studies
*Role-playing exercises
*Practical assignments
*Peer learning activities
*Assessment Strategy
*Module quizzes (30%)
*Participation in discussions (20%)
*Practical exercises (25%)
*Final implementation project (25%)
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Additional Resources
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*Required readings from the recommended book list
*Templates for PCT documentation
*Sample meeting agendas
*Confidentiality agreement templates
*Pastoral care assessment tools
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Course Duration
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6 weeks, 3-4 hours per week commitment
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Target Audience
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*Church board members
*Potential PCT members
*Church leadership teams
*Pastoral Staff
*Congregation members interested in pastoral care
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Prerequisites
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*Active church membership
*A committed follower of Jesus
*Basic understanding of church organization
*Commitment to pastoral care and support
Pastoral Care Team Booklet
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The pastoral office serves two primary purposes: to nurture the congregation and equip believers for the church’s mission. Pastors have a unique calling to embody and foster faith within their local community and beyond, as well as support and participate in the collective ministry of all believers. Recognizing the significance of maintaining a healthy pastor-congregation relationship is essential. The congregation holds responsibility for effectively caring for their pastor and managing this special bond. One tool we highly recommend is the implementation of a Pastoral Care Team (PCT).
Many churches typically have personnel committees or trustees responsible for administering policies, managing salaries, and overseeing benefits for both the pastor and church staff. Understanding that the Pastoral Care Team fulfills distinct roles and cannot replace these important committees is essential.
This booklet offers valuable suggestions that can enhance the ministry of the Pastoral Care Team. It presents fundamental principles and procedures that positively impact their work. For further information on the PCT Booklet, please request a copy.
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Resources for Pastoral Care Team
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The following is a handpicked list of books that offer valuable insights into pastoral theology, ministerial ethics, and the psychological and spiritual challenges that come with pastoral roles:
1. Tripp, Paul David. Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2020.
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2. Philpott, Kent. How to Care for Your Pastor: A Guide for Small Churches. Mill Valley, CA: Earthen Vessel Publishing, 2008.
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3. Tripp, Paul David. Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2015.
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4. Vanderbloemen, B. William. Search: The Pastoral Search Committee Handbook. Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing Group, 2016.
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5. Vanderbloemen, B. William, and Warren Bird. Next: Pastoral Succession That Works. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, 2020.
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6. Cordeiro, Wayne. Leading on Empty: Refilling Your Tank and Renewing Your Passion. Minneapolis, MI: Bethany House, 2009.
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7. McIntosh, Gary, and Samuel D. Rima. Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership: The Paradox of Personal Dysfunction. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2000.