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Spring 2022 VOL. 7 NUMBER 1

On the Cover: Alan Wright, lead pastor of Reynolda Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Photo courtesy of Erin Hull

Features

6 The Pastor’s Power to Bless
by Alan Wright
The church is called to equip saints for the work of the ministry. This includes implementing the biblical principle of blessing to help believers identify and use their spiritual gifts.

10 Madness & Grace: A Practical Guide for Pastoral Care and Serious Mental Illness
by Matthew S. Stanford, PhD
For many reasons, people often seek help from a pastor before a mental health counselor. Learn how the church can take the lead in caring for those with serious mental illness by providing spiritual support and referring them to professional mental health specialists as needed.

12 The Most Important Question a Leader Will Ever Ask
by R. Scott Rodin
The answer to one question — more than any other — will determine success in ministry.

15 Writing Difficult Pastoral Letters
by Jeremy Scott
Responding well to confrontational emails and texts can be challenging. Learn time-tested tips for handling criticism in an effective and godly manner.

Departments

4 Ministry Minute
Setting Prisoners Free

18 The Good Word
The Ups and Downs of Ministry