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Issue no.137 Disabling voices in pastoral care and counselling

Martin Luther’s ‘sin boldly’ revisited: a fresh look at a controversial concept in the light of modern pastoral psychology

Alexander S. Jensen

Abstract: The question of the relationship between theology and pastoral care is intricate and complex. While psychology has had a profound influence on the development of pastoral care, there are dimensions of theology which hold much potential for enabling caring and developing fresh understandings of human beings and human needs. This paper explores something of the complexities of integrating theology and psychology by offering a fresh look at a controversial concept in the light of modern pastoral psychology.

Counselling goes to church: aspects of the ‘pastoral’ in John McLeod’s narrative constructionist counselling and psychotherapy

Stephen Pattison and Gordon Lynch

Abstract: A discussion is offered of the recent work of John McLeod, which explores the notion of therapy as a social process. Points of similarity between McLeod’s approach and notions of pastoral care are noted, such as an awareness of the relational nature of human well-being, the significance of narrative in therapeutic practice and the liminal role of carers within institutions. Points of difference are also noted, and critical questions are raised concerning McLeod’s understanding of how human communities can be nurtured and the possibility of McLeod’s model unintentionally becoming another form of therapeutic expertise. A case is made for the practical value of an on-going dialogue between McLeod and those with an interest in pastoral care.

My pinching shoes

Keith M. Trivasse

Abstract: In this piece I look at how I was affected in my understanding of counselling skills and spirituality by a working trip to Kenya. Placing my own skills and understanding into the hands of a very different community and culture meant that I would come away changed. In this piece I begin to perceive those changes.

Prison voices: hope and transformation for inmates and youth

Sheryl Kujawa

Abstract: The Prison Voices program provides an opportunity for both long-term inmates and young people to participate in a community of mutual transformation. Though scholars and practitioners have noted the similarities between the two groups in modern, Western, societies - prisoners and young people - the Prison Voices program is an attempt to bring the two groups together in a socially constructive experience for the purpose of healing, solidarity and hope.

Under the auspices of the Prison Voices program, inmates tell and re-tell their stories to groups of young people, and challenge them to form positive self-identities, resist negative pressures, and complete their educations. Rather than portray past history and crimes romantically, inmates focus on how they have rebuilt their lives, though many continue to serve long sentences. Throughout the Prison Voices experience, emotional and spiritual healing is intertwined. Youth participants and prisoners undergo a similar transformation process; compassion, empathy, vulnerability, and transformation.