Objectives

Today more than ever there is a need for an all-out effort to give the best care possible to the church family. Across Christian circles, ministerial dropout, burnout and other problems are at an all-time high. Ministers themselves and their families are under a great deal of stress.

Often pastors feel isolated and yet extremely vulnerable as they function in the "fish bowl." However, the stigma frequently associated with requesting pastoral care can be a barrier to those most in need of assistance. Concerns about confidentiality and "political" repercussions deter many of our ministers from seeking help. We recognize the importance of confidentiality. We know that being able to share your problems without fear is vital to the healing process. That's why we are here. We'll help you handle the realities of ministerial life.

Confidential Telephone Counseling
The Center for Ministerial Care (CMC) provides a telephone counseling service that offers a toll-free, confidential and anonymous 800 line for Church of God ministers and their families. Call anytime 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There is someone available to talk to hurting shepherds, or their family members and offer pastoral care, referrals or words of encouragement. When a referral is needed, CMC draws from a network of over fifteen thousand qualified Christian counselors. The number is 1-800-762-5656.

Ministerial Enrichment Programs
The Center for Ministerial Care provides practical tools and information that enable ministers to develop successful life management strategies. From this perspective, and in cooperation with state and regional personnel, CMC offers marriage and family enrichment seminars, couples and family retreats, pastoral sabbatical programs, ministerial placement services and other nurturing resources.

Professional Consultation
Pastors who are constantly providing counseling to so many others need to discuss how to address issues that arise during the counseling sessions. The Center for Ministerial Care is available for consultation and for limited assistance in providing professional referrals for their members. Call 1-800-762-5656.

Pastoral Crisis Intervention
A network of individuals at the state and international level has been appointed to notify CMC of a ministerial family in crisis. In turn, CMC makes contact with the individual or family to offer assistance. The Critical Incident policy may include phone calls, prayer, networking, resource materials, and encouragement.

Ministerial Advocacy
One of the primary responsibilities of CMC lies in supporting those whose ministerial license has been terminated. This office works closely with the International Ministerial Advocate's Office and the overseer responsible for the termination process. In this special role, CMC is the primary consultant in recommending pastoral counseling services for both the former minister and his/her family. When an individual desires reinstatement, a restoration program is designed and approved by CMC and the State/Territorial Bishop.

SpiritCare
CMC has not forgotten our retired ministers, spouses, or minister's widows. SpiritCare, a retired minister's and widows program, includes a national structure which is networking with state and regional fellowships to serve as a voice of support for retired ministers and widows activities and concerns.

A counseling ministry is also provided for these ministers and their spouses during times of special need such as death, disability, or financial crisis. The objective is to maintain frequent contact with all senior personnel, lest a single person be overlooked or feel forgotten.

Church of God retired clergy represent a tremendous resource of talent and experience. It is the intent of SpiritCare to develop ways and means of deploying a volunteer army of seasoned veterans to strengthen and relieve those on the frontlines of spiritual warfare.

Helping Hands is a program that reimburses pharmaceutical medications for retired ministers and widows who live at or below the national poverty level.

International Ministry
In cooperation with the World Missions department, programs are being expanded to provide care for missionaries and their families, as well as overseas ministerial enrichment and care services.

Ministerial Care Resources
The Center for Ministerial Care recognizes the need for practical resources for ministers. We have written six ministry booklets that provide helpful resource information to assist ministers with their ministerial needs. You may wish to consult CMC's Website for further information.