May 2001
""Take heed, therefore, unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over
which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which
he hath purchased with his own blood." *Acts 20:28 What Church Members Should Do and When . . .
"I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with
knowledge and understanding." *Jer. 3:15
There Is to Be a Wedding: You should contacts the pastor before the wedding date
is set. The pastor requires at least three counseling sessions, so it is
advisable to contacts him well in advance of the wedding. Early notification
places your wedding on the pastor's schedule and on the calendar to use the
church.
There Is Illness: The pastor is as near as your telephone. Yet many members will
call everyone except the pastor. The pastor truly wants to know when you are
sick. You take a risk when you rely on someone else to get the information to
him. Your call when you, your loved ones or friends are ill or going to the
hospital is appreciated.
There is Death: You should contacts the pastor immediately (no matter the time or
day) when there is death in the family. It is necessary to consult the pastor
before funeral arrangements are made. The funeral director cannot schedule
funerals in the church. The pastor also provides comfort and counseling during
these difficult times.
You Have a Spiritual Problem: Many parishioners have questions and fears that
bring discomfort. The pastor is your spiritual advisor. He will discuss with you
how faith in God can help you to be victorious over your difficulties or
problems.
You are Facing a Serious Problem: Your pastor has been trained to help people
with their personal, family and business problems. The impartial judgment of a
spiritual leader, combined with his prayers for divine guidance, will enable you
to face your difficulty with confidence. Don't allow your problem to get too big
for you.
Someone Desires to Become a Christian: ". . . that likewise joy in heaven
over one sinner that repenteth. . ." This is a heavenly activity.
Happy indeed is the pastor who is asked to talk to someone desiring to become a
Christian. The pastor wants to know about friends and family members who are
interested in knowing more about Christian life.
These are just a few of the instances where you should seek the involvement of
your pastor. Conflict and confusion may arise when the pastor is called after
all decisions have been made. It may require changing dates, redoing programs,
etc. "Let all things be done decently and in order."
Happy mother's day!
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