Forum Replies Created
-
Posts
-
1. What should the pastoral counsellor’s role be in working with children with counselling needs?
The pastoral counsellor’s role is to provide a safe, compassionate, and spiritually grounded space where children feel heard, supported, and valued. They should use age-appropriate methods to help children express their feelings and experiences, while also guiding them with biblical truth, prayer, and emotional care. The counsellor must work with wisdom, sensitivity, and respect for the child’s developmental stage and unique needs, while collaborating with families, teachers, or professionals where necessary to ensure holistic support.2. What is one of the ways you have learned about in the content covered that you can begin to use when talking with children at risk?
One method I’ve learned and found helpful is the use of play therapy or creative expression, such as drawing, storytelling, or using toys. These tools help children express thoughts and emotions they might not be able to verbalize directly. This approach creates a non-threatening environment that allows the child to open up and feel safe. By observing their play or creative work and gently engaging in conversation, the counsellor can gain insight into the child’s inner world and begin to offer appropriate spiritual and emotional guidance. It also builds trust and gives the child a sense of control in a process that might otherwise feel overwhelming.1. What I Learned from Siang-Yang Tan (4–5 sentences)
From Siang-Yang Tan, I learned that the Holy Spirit plays a central role in Christian counseling by guiding both the counselor and the client towards healing and truth. He emphasized the importance of relying on the Spirit for discernment, wisdom, and inner transformation. Tan also highlighted how spiritual disciplines like prayer and Scripture reading open the door for the Holy Spirit to work more deeply in the counseling process. Most importantly, he reminded me that true change comes not only through techniques but through the presence and power of God.2. My Views on the Interview and Video (4–5 sentences)
I found the interview and video inspiring and affirming. It helped me see how counseling is not just a professional skill but also a spiritual ministry. I appreciated the balance between psychological tools and the spiritual dynamics led by the Holy Spirit. It challenged me to grow not just in counseling techniques, but also in my relationship with God, so I can be a vessel for His healing work in others.The Role of a Spiritual Leader in Family Spiritual Formation
A spiritual leader has a profound responsibility to nurture the spiritual formation of their own family. This begins with intentional, daily practices that center on God, such as prayer, Scripture reading, and living out biblical principles in the home. A leader must model a Christ-like life, demonstrating humility, love, and service. For a family to grow spiritually, a leader should encourage open discussions about faith, ensure regular participation in communal worship, and create a home environment where spiritual growth is prioritized. This sets a foundation for children and other family members to cultivate a strong relationship with God.
Developing a good family vision is crucial for spiritual growth. Proverbs 29:18 emphasizes the importance of vision, stating, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” A spiritual leader can craft a family vision by first seeking God’s guidance through prayer and Scripture. This vision should reflect the family’s core values, spiritual goals, and the purpose they believe God has for them. It should be clear, inspiring, and regularly revisited to ensure that the family remains aligned with God’s will. By involving the whole family in the creation of this vision, everyone becomes invested in its fulfillment.
However, there are potential dangers for families where a father or mother is a spiritual leader or vocational minister. The demands of ministry can lead to neglect of personal and family needs, resulting in burnout or strained relationships. Children of spiritual leaders may feel undue pressure to meet high expectations, which can lead to resentment or rebellion. Additionally, the family might experience isolation, as others may perceive them as different or hold them to unrealistic standards.
The way a spiritual leader cares for their own family profoundly impacts other families in the congregation. A leader who models a healthy, spiritually vibrant family life sets a positive example for others to follow. When congregants see that the leader’s family is flourishing, they are more likely to trust and respect the leader’s guidance in their own spiritual journeys. Conversely, if a spiritual leader’s family life is in disarray, it can cause disillusionment and lead others to question the leader’s credibility. Therefore, prioritizing the spiritual health and well-being of one’s family is not only essential for personal reasons but also for the broader influence it has on the community of faith
The structure of worship services can vary significantly among different Christian denominations and individual churches ands the praise and worship songs they vary, so in my church we normally sing the modern songs. Here is the service structure we are using in my local church.
1. *Welcome and Announcements*
– The service usually begins with a warm welcome from a church leader or pastor.2. *Opening Prayer*
– An opening prayer sets the tone for the service, inviting God’s presence and guidance.3. *Worship through Music*
– This segment often includes several worship songs or hymns, led by a worship team or choir. The congregation is encouraged to sing along, fostering a sense of communal worship.4. Announcement from leader and the offering and tithes congregation will be encouraged by scripture
5. *Sermon*
– The pastor or preacher delivers a message based on the Bible. The sermon aims to teach, inspire, and encourage the congregation in their faith and daily lives.6. *Prayer*
– This may include a pastoral prayer, intercessory prayers for the needs of the congregation and the world, and a moment for personal prayer or reflection.7. *Communion (Lord’s Supper)*
– Depending on the denomination, communion might be observed weekly, monthly, or quarterly. This sacrament involves the sharing of bread and wine (or juice), symbolizing the body and blood of Christ.8. *Closing Song*
– The service often concludes with a final worship song, sending the congregation out with a spirit of praise and thanksgiving.9. *Benediction*
– The pastor gives a closing blessing or benediction, offering words of encouragement and peace as the congregation prepares to leave.11. *Fellowship*
– After the service, many churches encourage a time of fellowship where attendees can socialize, have refreshments, and build community relationships.
