In the year prior to leaving the message, I had become very acquainted with a method of counselling called “Caring for the Heart“ (Developed by John Regier). I appreciated my pastor who would often go outside...
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the story of counselling in the message
What is Caring for the Heart?
A method of Christian counselling (created by John Regier) which, as a message pastor, I began to practice in our church. It was intended to help people overcome trauma that impacted relationship within marriage and with self.
My interest in learning Caring for the Heart was based on observed need; there was a dire void of help for people in the message who struggled with genuine personal issues (mental pain, trauma, abuse, marriage, relationships, moral failures, etc).
Even though we believed in prayer and spiritual/biblical impact through the ministry, some people still really struggled to overcome. Blame was often placed on the individual. In my opinion, perhaps something more could be done to help.
Caring for the Heart was never intended to replace the preaching of the word (the message), and the effect of prayer. But after learning the method and practicing for a period of time, it began to reveal something disturbing – from my perspective.
Firstly, there were a disturbing number of people who were legitimately abused and hurting. Why?? Secondly, regardless of my intent or success, the message faithful did NOT like or approve my method. Why?? This series is just a story of personal experience and concern.
articles
Caring for the Heart Series (Part 2): When Religion Hinders Help
(this is a continuation of Part 1: An Introduction to Caring for the Heart) Getting Help: Not an Easy Subject I realize the headline of this article may cause some unease for readers who...
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Caring for the Heart (Part 3): Why Message Ministers are Poor Counsellors
(this is a continuation of Part 2: When Religion Hinders Help) A message church that follows the message of William Branham is a challenging environment to introduce anything using material outside of itself. For...
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Caring for the Heart Series (Part 4): Doing the Work
(this is a continuation of Part 3: Why Message Ministers Are Poor Counsellors) My Last Months Doing Counseling in the Message In the months following my visit to Caring for the Heart, I spent...
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Caring for the Heart Series (Part 5): In Conclusion – Seeking Help
(this is a continuation of Part 4: Doing the Work) Criticisms of Psychology vs Spirituality For anyone who criticized me about this method of spiritual counselling as undermining the power of preaching-ministry, message tapes,...
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