“Open Door” : A pastoral care and counseling approach to the poverty-stricken families of Peacemaker Church in Kawayanan, Tabuc Suba, La Paz, Iloilo City

Abstract

This paper covers how I feel of what 'pastoral care and counseling' to the poor and impoverished families of Peacemaker Church, is all about. It begins by suggesting the “open door” approach to pastoral care and counseling. The ‘open door’ approach proposes many ways and means of reaching out to the poor. It suggests an inclusive and multi-disciplinary and holistic team approach to pastoral care and counseling that the church should deem imperative in addressing the wider spectrum of needs and problems of poverty- stricken families. Chapter 2 presents a particular case study that in a way parallels most of the stories and experiences shared by the poor and poverty-stricken families of the Peacemaker Church. Chapter 3 elucidates the use of the metaphor, 'Open Door'. Such metaphor, as a process, used literally and figuratively, suggests new, different innovative thoughts, ideas or beliefs system, different from those that one is accustomed to. It suggests opportunity, conversation, relationship, empowerment and processes that are transformative. Chapter 4 offers a paradigm for pastoral care and counseling to the poverty-stricken families that will help inform the Christian communities of the holistic approach to these families from a biblical, pastoral and practical perspective that will bring together aspects of faith and health and wellness to the church community. Chapter 5, which highlights the key themes and learnings from past ministries, reflects on the present pastoral care and counseling ministry undertaken by the church and suggests strategies or models of the programs to be implemented. The final chapter presents an evaluation, conclusion followed by recommendations for relevant and effective ministry.