PASTORAL CARE AND LEADERSHIP: THE SOFTWARE OF THE CHURCH

In this publication the author discusses the critical significance of pastoral care and leadership as they relate to the life of the church. A definition of pastoral care is given first followed by a brief history. The elements of effective pastoral care are described in detail followed by a definition of leadership in general and transformational leadership in particular. The importance of character in the life of the leader is then discussed followed by the theological perspectives of leadership. In this paper leadership is viewed as a role, relationship, modeling, attention to mission and as service. Service brings out the relationship between authority and service, competent service and genuine service.