FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
Should one person or the whole team participate?
As many as possible on your team and in your church; if you are interested in being part of the team, are on a team or new to the team, or leading a team, all are welcome!
I’m a pastor, should I attend?
Yes! Care and Healing ministries always include the pastor, who is on the team. Pastors are encouraged to attend, but not required to attend.
Can I attend if I miss one of the sessions?
Yes! Live participation is strongly encouraged, but we understand if schedules are busy. You can watch the recording (live for 30 days) to catch up before the next week.
What if my church can't afford the textbook?
We never want cost to prevent you from participating. Email (joy@htcumc.org) for assistance.
How much does the textbook cost and where do I purchase it?
“The Caring Congregation, Implementation Guide” is around $15 and you can purchase from Cokesbury or Amazon. HERE
Can multiple people from my church attend together?
Yes! Jesus had a team, and you need one too! You and your team can log on to Zoom individually, or gather as a group at someone’s home or at the church for a “watch party.”
Do I need any special technology or preparation before the first session?
An internet connection is required to connect online. The textbook will guide you in what you’ll learn, and there will be short assignments to read before the next session.
What if our church has never had a care ministry before, is this still for us?
Yes! If you’ve never formed a prayer or care team before, this is an excellent introduction on why you need a team and a system of care.
Will we receive any materials or resources besides the textbook?
Yes, you will receive handouts and additional resources to help you successfully navigate.
How do I know if my church is "small" vs. “medium-sized"?
Everyone will interpret this differently, and it’s up to you to decide what’s best for you. Reach out if you want to discuss which cohort will work best for you and your church (joy@htcumc.org).
What's the main difference between Option 1 and Option 2?
Both trainings cover the same core content - the why, how, and what of care ministry - but they're structured differently to best serve the unique contexts and needs of different church sizes.
Can I switch groups and days once it’s begun?
No, to build community and continuity, you’ll need to continue with the group you begin with.
Who is teaching the training?
This training is led by experienced leaders from The Caring Congregation (TheCaringCongregation.com), who bring decades of hands-on care ministry experience and a proven record of helping churches build thriving care systems that grow a church and expand the reach of Christ’s love in the community.
Will this work for our unique rural context?
Yes! In fact, our rural churches already do a great job of caring for one another; this will help build a system, deepen community outreach, and make disciples through Christ’s love and care. Our rural churches are uniquely positioned to be a beacon in the community; working in this cohort, you’ll learn from one another and build relationships to support one another.
What if I’ve already done the basics of care before? Can I join again?
Yes! In fact, a refresher course is a great way to deepen your knowledge and broaden how you provide care and healing in your community. You’ll find new material and ideas to expand your reach.
What will I be able to do after completing this training?
Pastors and laity will be able to form a prayer and care team, build a system of care in your church, deepen your prayer and care team, understand the basics of care and healing ministries, expand and recruit for your team, expand your care and healing ministries by reaching out into your community, and cultivate a culture of care in your church that helps it grow and flourish.
Will I receive a certificate or any credentials?
Yes, you will receive a certificate of completion, and pastors can earn CEU credits.
What if we have (or had) a Stephen Ministry? Can we still join this cohort?
Yes! Stephen Ministry focuses on one-on-one spiritual listening, which is excellent. This training helps you build a comprehensive care system that includes Stephen Ministry as one component, along with visitation, community outreach, team coordination, and other care strategies. If you don't have Stephen Ministry, you'll still gain the spiritual listening and care skills needed for your context, just applied in ways that fit your church's capacity and needs.
What kind of ongoing support is available after the training ends?
Care ministry is not a "one and done" project, it's an ongoing journey of learning, adapting, and growing. After the training, you'll continue to have access to resources and support from both The Caring Congregation and the Horizon Texas Conference Care and Healing Team. This includes access to online materials, check-ins, and connection to a network of other care ministry leaders across the conference who are on the same journey. We're committed to walking alongside you as your care ministry develops and deepens over time.
What if I can’t attend either option?
The Caring Congregation offers additional training opportunities (in-person and online). Reach out to Rev. Joy for other options and ideas (joy@htcumc.org).