Leaders Toolbox #27

How to Pastorally Respond to Crisis or Dysfunction

Audio from Student Ministry Leader Training
John Elmore and Jessica Gober - October 6, 2013

2 Corinthians 1:3-4
3 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.

1 Peter 2:9
You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.

1 Corinthians 10:13
13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

Who can provide pastoral care? You can! You are a royal priest.

• You’re able to comfort those in any affliction 
• You’re able to relate because you’ve had troubles (even if they aren’t exactly the same). 
• You’re able to offer hope because you know Christ. Christ alone heals.

Your job is to grow students in intimacy with Christ, the source of all comfort.

Downloadable Resources:​

• 10 Pastoral Care DOs and DON'Ts (PDF) 
• Specific Pastoral Care Issue Sheets (PDF) 
• God's Role vs. Our Role (PDF) 
• Bridge Illustration (PDF)

Leaders Toolbox #12

4 Ways to Respond to Hurting Students
It's not always easy to know how to respond when we find out a student we care about is going through a difficult time. What do I say to a student whose parents are fighting? How do I care for a student whose being bullied? Without question, the Student Ministries staff is always here to support you but these four tips will go a long ways. Listen, empathize, comfort, and pray.

1. Listen
Find a place and time where you can talk. Ask a lot of questions. Get to know the situation and the feelings involved. Let them vent. Call to check in. Make yourself available.

2. Empathize
Put yourself in their situation and imagine how you would feel. Allow your own emotions to connect. Share with them what you would be thinking and feeling. Show them that you're with them and that you understand.

3. Comfort
Remind them of God’s love and nearness. Always lead them to the Bible. What biblical characters share a story similar to theirs? What verses have comforted you in difficult times? Teach them how to look things up. Encourage them to memorize and meditate on God’s word.

4. Pray
Always pray with them and for them and for others involved in the situation. Lead them to the Source of hope, truth, and power. Teach them how to pray for themselves.

Leaders Toolbox #5

Tips for "Shepherding Kids Through Divorce/Separation"

As we lead students, we will no doubt face some unique and difficult issues. A leader of students must aware of and involved in these isssues but should also be careful not to allow these issues to overwhelm them. Click HERE for some tips for getting involved in the lives of the individuals in your group who are dealing with the harsh realities of divorce or separation.