The course, called ‘Tragedy and Congregations’, aims to help junior clergy react to a tragedy in their area in line with best church practice.
Clergy from all denominations are encouraged to reflect on theological truths by thinking about how tragedy fits in with God’s plan, as well as thinking about how to respond in prayer.
Churches can book a training team for between one and three days to help them think about the minister’s role at times of tragedy and how liturgy can be shaped to help the congregation flourish amidst difficulty.
The training is led by Dr Christopher Southgate, an Associate Professor in Interdisciplinary Theology at the University of Exeter.
He has previously worked as a lay chaplain and on mental health wards.
Dr Southgate told Premier: “When something really terrible happens, still in this country, people look to see what the church will do, so for the church to have a sense of what its resources are is really important.”
Speaking about how churches can react to tragedy helpfully Dr Southgate said: “I hope churches will see the opportunities these terrible events provide them to serve.
“And to provide resources such as prayer and vigil that you can’t find in the secular society.
“We always do material on pastoral care of individuals in times of need but I’ve never seen any programme focused on crisis in congregation and how clergy might respond”
There will be at least twelve sessions held over the country, funded by the Templeton World…
… Read More
—
Click Read More to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Premier Christianity News.