When responding to pastoral crises, what role should a minister play? How can pastors deal with their legitimate concerns about inadequate training, civil and criminal litigation, and the impact of stress on their ministry?

Paths to Hope and Healing is a new model of caregiving where, in a time of crisis, the pastor agrees to an initial visit, makes a preliminary assessment, and then refers the member to the proper clinical therapist for further diagnosis and treatment. The pastor is then free to follow up with the person for prayer and support, but is not expected to enter into the long, difficult work of diagnosis and treatment.

Paths to Hope and Healing equips clergy to make a brief assessment of need and, when necessary, refer the member to trusted experts for further diagnosis and treatment. The program consists of four resources (all four are included in the Review Pack:

• The 48-page Clergy Guide offers background information that helps pastors to establish a congregational policy, develop a caregiver support network, and use the resources effectively.
• The Questionaire uses a decision-tree format to guide the pastor through an initial session. (Included in the Review Pack and is also sold separately for $21.75 for a pack of 10).
• The Clergy Video describes the program and demonstrates its use.
• God's Way for Me, visitation pamphlet is a devotional the parishioner can use between the initial visit with the pastor and any referral. (Included in the Review Pack and is also sold separately for $3.45 each).