27 April 2026

Dr. James Robertson was one of my predecessors at Whittingehame Kirk. Towards the end of the nineteenth century,  he  was invited to give a series of lectures on Pastoral Theology at the four Scottish Universities. He entitled them, ‘The Christian Minister His Aims and Methods’. They were published in 1899.

‘Remember that in no charge, however humble, will any of you be less than a minister of Christ; it is only in money and worldly prominence that you need ever be inferior; not in labour, not in service, not in joy.’ he wrote, setting the ministry in its proper context of humble servant.

‘What will be your thought and manner in visiting a family, say, for the first time? I answer, You will cross the threshold with reverence, were it for this reason only, that you can little foresee what may be the issues of your acquaintance with this household, or on what solemn errands you may come to their door.’

Humility is the primary characteristic of those who participate in pastoral care. The establishment of friendships when all’s right with the world   is the foundational building block. Relating to each other as people made in the image of God inspires reverence.

Pastoral care brings encouragement and stimulates greater commitment and faith. It  establishes  a journey which we make together. Who knows where it may lead but in this we prepare the way which  may even lead us  through the valley of the shadow of death.

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