Pastoral Health and Care

Course Summary

This unit introduces students to the theology and practice of pastoral health and care for individuals and faith communities. It equips students with the knowledge, skills and dispositions needed for effective pastoral care and improved pastoral health across diverse ministry settings. Key topics include biblical and theological foundations, the spiritual dynamics of care (presence, vulnerability, hospitality, listening, difference and conflict), theological reflection on care encounters, and ongoing self-care and development for the carer.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Explain the nature, scope, theological basis and spiritual dynamics of pastoral health and care, with reference to Scripture, Christian tradition, and contemporary scholarship.
2. Theologically reflect on significant experiences of giving and/or receiving care, and identify areas for their own growth as a pastoral carer.
3. Examine pastoral issues and the dynamics affecting those involved, and decide on suitable types of care within their knowledge and capacity.
4. Evaluate pastoral health and care ministries in specific church or parachurch settings, and identify effective approaches to a particular need.

Course Content

1. Introduction to Pastoral Health and Care — Nature and Scope
2. Theological Foundations for Pastoral Health and Care
3. Availability, Presence and Wounded Healing
4. Border Crossing — Encountering the Other
5. Hospitality, Listening and Dialogue
6. Pastoral Health and Care in the Church
7. Pastoral Health and Care in Secular Contexts
8. Resources for Pastoral Health and Care — Referrals and Collaboration
9. Developing a Theology of Suffering
10. Self-Care and Personal Management
11. Pastoral Identity