Date
10-16-2024
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Chair
Teresa K. Duez
Keywords
bounded-set, centered-set, community, diversity, equity, inclusion, marginalized, pastoral care, safe-spaces, support groups
Disciplines
Religion
Recommended Citation
Pratt, Dawn E., "Providing A Paradigm of Pastoral Care for the Marginalized Through Jesus Centered Eyes at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship Church" (2024). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 6087.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/6087
Abstract
This project outlines a paradigm of pastoral care for the marginalized through Jesus-centered eyes. Enhancing resources and implementing pastoral care within Cornerstone Christian Fellowship Church (CCF) will establish a Jesus-centered pastoral care center while developing a more profound theological paradigm to identify and implement strategies to enhance pastoral care in marginalized communities. CCF's pastoral theological approach to empathy requires that many layers of different circumstances be inquired about while keeping close to the subject or individual in need. CCF is the vehicle that has established a transformational view through the eyes of Jesus at the center. A solid literature review of the resources regarding such topics as diversity, inclusivity, leadership, equity, community support, counseling, safe spaces, support groups, practical solutions, and recognition of inherent worth became the foundation of identifying gaps in pastoral care within CCF. The literature review exemplified the existing realities faced by marginalized communities. The research from the literature review supports the parallels of existing narratives, which helped give more insight into the centered-set model that emphasizes inclusivity without rigid boundaries. The researcher created case studies that were developed from CCF congregants who participated in confidential talks with the researcher. The studies established multiple themes, some overlapping and too large to continue with pastoral care weekly. Pastoral care provides spiritual aid in many aspects. Pastors actively engaging in pastoral care with their church is essential because it keeps them connected to the center of Christ while growing their faith.
