In an era in which there is much written about the ministerial role of leader and strategic planner with the goal of numerical growth, the need for care-giving and counsel in biblical wisdom in times of conflict and conscience is escalating. This creates an enormous challenge for both pastor and church in terms of ministry priorities and asset allocation. In this session, a call will be made to re-focus on what has traditionally been considered to be the “shepherding responsibility” of the church and of those in pastoral ministry. Several areas will be considered:1. The ministry of the pulpit§ Proclaiming the relevance of sound biblical theology to times of crisis and tragedy.§ Helping people develop a Christ-centered worldview adequate to sustain them through times of crisis.2. The ministry of Christian education§ Providing opportunities for dialogue.§ Evaluating the application of Scripture together.§ Considering methods and techniques of care giving.3. The ministry of community§ Resting in the beauty of body life.§ Planning, recruiting and training for the ministry of the body.4. The ministry of biblical counsel and wisdom seekingRequiring “presence” – involvement participation with family and health care professionals.Requiring listening – seeking first to understand and then to be understood.Calling for touch.5. The ministry of prayerConsidering James 5.Rejecting “practical agnosticism” and recognizing God’s presence in the situation.