The purpose of the Pastoral Support and Counseling Staff of Central Church is to edify and build up the body of Christ. Within that context, the information shared during the support and soul-care process is to be kept with
responsible trust. The information that is shared with us is precious and not to be regarded lightly or irresponsibly. The Pastoral Support Staff has a biblical mandate to use their judgment regarding the exchange of information for the purpose of providing a comprehensive and unified plan of discipleship for each individual in a manner that will maintain one's dignity and integrity. The sharing of information by an individual with our staff serves to indicate that he/she is willing to impart trust so that the Pastoral Support Staff can provide direction that is in the best interest of the individual and the kingdom of God. It is also to be understood that by law we are required to share with proper authorities in the following situations:
- In the cases of emergency wherein the individual is likely to harm him/herself or others.
- In keeping with the laws of the State of Tennessee, Central Church staff is required to report suspected child abuse to the appropriate authorities.
When working with couples &/or families, the pastoral support staff reserves the right to determine if any information shared privately by one individual would be beneficial to be shared with another/others also in the Soul-Care & Pastoral Support Ministry process. In this way, the pastoral staff is careful not to be the holder of "secret information" which would impede the effectiveness of achieving the agreed upon goals. This would only be done with the understanding by and preparation of the individual sharing the information.
When working with a minor, the pastoral support and counseling staff will attempt to foster a relationship of trust and openness allowing the minor to freely discuss any issue. Ultimately, the goal will be to help bring the minor into a more healthy relationship with his/her parent(s)/guardian(s), so the family can be in a place to better address and resolve concerns. Although
details of conversations with the minor do not have to be revealed, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be appropriately informed of progress.
Additionally, it is our policy that when an individual is under the care of a physician or another professional, communication regarding pertinent treatment considerations will be maintained with that professional.
The Pastoral Support Ministry is not a psychological center. Our pastoral support staff are not psychotherapists, psychologists or medical doctors. Each pastoral support staff member is a person who has received a calling and gifting from God for the purpose of exhorting and helping people to mature in Christ-likeness. Therefore, the elders of Central Church request that each person sign a consent form regarding the definition of pastoral support & soul-care, and are in agreement with Central Church's approach to a pastoral support ministry.
