Many thanks to those who have completed the National Pastoral Care Survey. Some early analysis suggests that a significant number of Christian doctors and nurses feel a need for pastoral support that is focussed and does not appear to be available in their church settings. Other major themes include managing expectations in themselves and from others, workload and burnout. We will be publishing the findings in depth in due course, but there is a clear message that the pastoral needs of Christian healthcare staff are real and significant.

It has also become clear that many members feel called to help in this area and CMF wants to encourage the development of pastoral gifts in members who want to be involved. We are exploring ways to recognise those who want to help other members pastorally by establishing a recognised Pastoral Care Partner role. We are also seeking to support these Partners by gathering together people with special experience to form a Pastoral Care Advisory Group. Do pray for wisdom as we think this through and that the Lord would lay this on the hearts of those who should be involved.

If you are interested in looking further into partnering with CMF to provide pastoral care, then please do contact Steve Sturman, Associate Head of Doctors Ministries: steve.sturman@cmf.org.uk

Christ Centred Pastoral Care for Healthcare Staff,

7 Dec, Johnson House, London

What might good Christian pastoral care and mentoring for clinicians look like? How do we help one another to 'grow in grace', recovering a sense of God's rule in our lives?

This one-day conference explores the need for pastoral care for clinicians and how we might be equipped to meet it. To book and for info, visit cmf.li/PastrlCareConf19