Pastoral Ministry
Rev. Christine A. Bruce, M.Div., M.C.A.T., LMFT,
Presbytery Associate for the Care of Ministers
E-mail: care@presbyphl.org;
direct phone: 215-620-8091
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that the
all-surpassing power is from God and not from us…” (II Corinthians 4:7)
Each one of us who leads Christian ministry is as deeply aware of our humanity, as we are of the inward and shared treasure of Christ’s presence. Indeed, it is this awareness which makes authentic ministry possible. We may have many sources of personal replenishment, yet there are times when we have desired the same place of confidential spiritual friendship, which we as pastors offer to others. To whom can we turn for pastoral care?
The Presbytery of Philadelphia is blessed to be able to provide a professional person on staff who is out of the referencing loop, to act as “pastor to the pastors” and their families, or Presbytery Associate for the Care of Ministers. I have been serving in this capacity since April, 2010, speaking and visiting with you, facilitating our awareness and caring for one another, and maintaining a knowledge base of resources for all manner of needs pertaining to your holistic care.
Working together with me, the Pastoral Care Ministry Team is a group of our peers who have volunteered to serve you, increasing the scope of our availability. Currently serving on the PCMT: Rev. Dr. Brent Eelman, Rev. Alonzo Johnson, and Rev. Gloria Yi.
I hope that the ministers and pastoral leaders in Philadelphia Presbytery will feel assured that they have someone who is there to listen, to sit where they sit; someone to encourage them, someone who walks with them in spiritual fellowship and who will pray with them and for them.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24)
I further hope that together we can create an ethos in the Presbytery, that although we have many differences, we will thank God for our diversity because it enriches us, allows us to embody the Kingdom of God, gives us ample opportunity to search our souls, sharpen our practical theology, broaden our horizons, grow our dependence on Christ,
practice humility, and in all things continue to grow up in Christ together.
Helpful Resources:
Clergy Self-Care, by Linda R. Wolf-Jones, M. Div., DSW
The Clergy Care Toolbox of the Presbytery Pastoral Care Network, Rev. Stephen P. McCutcheon, editor
You may also use this form below to contact the Associate for the Care of Ministers.