Eric Channing
Pastor of Congregational Care and Family Ministries Grow: In Pastoral Care Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. (Psalm 136:1) Today as I sequester in my home, shut in due to COVID-19 concerns, I am reminded just how thankful I am for you, the people of College Church. I am thankful for how good God has been to our church (for nearly 160 years!), and most of all I am thankful that he is in control, especially when we feel out of control. Below I briefly highlight how I have seen growth in the people and ministry areas that I oversee. Pastoral Care In my role of pastoral care, I regularly plead for God’s wisdom as I walk with many of you through challenging circumstances in your lives. In those difficult and sometimes heartwrenching situations, I always find that God is
there. He is with us. He is a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). This year I have seen “growth” through broken marriages that now have fresh hope, through people finding perseverance and even joy amidst long-term trials, and I have been inspired with your faith in Christ when dealing with loss and grief. Side By Side In December 2019, our first “Side by Side” ministry training participants completed their final course. Over three semesters, these individuals completed the following courses: How People Change, Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands and Side by Side. Each course utilized the gospel-centered material from the Christian Counseling and Education Foundation (CCEF). These Side by Side graduates, called “helpers,” will be paired with others in our congregation who are going through difficult times. I am excited to see how the Lord will continue to grow this initiative, and more importantly, how he will help us continue to grow in caring for one another in the years to come. G.R.A.C.E. Certification Also in December 2019, College Church was formally granted our Child Safeguarding Certification from G.R.A.C.E. (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment). As a result of G.R.A.C.E.’s input and guidance, we
“In those difficult and sometimes heart-wrenching situations, I always find that God is there. He is with us. Eric Channing, pastor of congregational care and family ministries”
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