The practice of pastoral care is often developed by honing skills that equip caregivers to listen actively, cultivate empathy, and reflect a non-anxious presence during people's moments of need. John Connolly argues that this approach toward caregiving competencies often overlooks an important element from a faith perspective: worship. In The Liturgy of Pastoral Care, Connolly expands the understanding of faith-based caregiving to highlight embedded moments of worship.
Drawing on his experience as a military chaplain, Connolly explores how pastoral care naturally unfolds in patterns that align with elements of worship: gathering, word, meal, and sending. Connolly examines how this type of liturgical practice of care also fits across various Christian traditions of worship. Connolly highlights ways that care encounters, whether in a hospital room, church office, or prison context, become spaces where God's presence is revealed for the care receiver and caregiver alike.
The Liturgy of Pastoral Care equips pastors, chaplains, pastoral counselors, and lay leaders to elevate their awareness of worshipful moments during the ministry of presence. The book offers an accessible, yet theologically grounded, approach toward identifying the intersection of worship and pastoral care--and ways for practitioners to participate in those worship moments more fully.
