Photo by Erik M. Lunsford/The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod.
Spiritual care applies to all people in all circumstances. While the term generally is used to address the spiritual wounds caused by suffering, spiritual care is provided throughout all life circumstances. The Lutheran Confessions give us a strong understanding of suffering which enables us to better care for the spiritually oppressed. Spiritual care is the ongoing upkeep of the Christian life. Resources for the care of souls proves invaluable to pastors and church workers alike. As Christians, every believer has the joy for caring for those weak or struggling in spirit or faith. Strengthened by the Holy Spirit and the love of Christ for all people, the Church faithfully cares for her members providing the encouragement and support of spiritual care providers and resources.
There is great need to attend to the spiritual wellbeing of those who faithfully serve the Church such as pastors and other church workers. For congregations looking to serve and care for their church workers, the resources provided enable for the consistent, intentional, and loving care of the faithful laborers of our Church.
Index
Resources Available
Life Library — Suffering
This collection of articles deals with suffering with a firm Lutheran understanding of the Theology of the Cross. We are not left alone in our suffering but rather, our God is with us even in suffering.
Supporting and Encouraging Culture — Worker Wellness
This is a subsection of the LCMS Worker Wellness page on the synod website. It contains links to articles touching on a church worker’s spiritual care needs.
Church Worker Wellness Devotions
Access the electronic version of a weekly series of devotions for church workers that take a holistic approach to wellness, incorporating vocational, relational, financial and emotional concerns of workers.
Clergy Mental Health and the Doctrine of Justification
Access this free booklet by Rev. Dr. Robert D. Preus from the LCMS Mercy Booklet Series.
Spiritual Care Companion for Time of Disaster
This devotional booklet is provided by LCMS Disaster Response. It includes Bible passages, meditations, prayers and hymns to bring God’s comfort and peace during a crisis.