Speaking Hope

Western culture and many of its churches and pastors are enamored by the assumption that life's most difficult problems call for in-depth psychological treatment. This book offers a different model of care than the dominant perspectives of modern psychology to those who have the responsibility of pastoral counseling. While there are a number of models and training programs for Christian lay counselors, this work is original in its application of the Solution-Focused approach to training lay members. The fundamental value of this book is as a guide for ministers in equipping the members of their congregations to care for one another. It is in caring for and being cared for by others that we truly discover the joy of living in God's community. Speaking Hope is a theoretically sound and practical methodology for lay pastoral caregivers in the Christian faith community. Frankly, it can also inform local pastors in their caregiving as well. What seems most helpful to me is that Dr. Holland emphasizes beginning with a person's strengths, and that the person seeking help is the expert on his or her problem. This is a well written and very useful guide for lay people in the local church.--Larry Easterling, retired United Methodist minister, ACPE Certified EducatorPastoral counseling in the church is often a sticky and complicated endeavor. In Speaking Hope, Dr. Holland gives a practical guide that navigates the challenges of theory, theology, and the ethics involved in pastoral counseling. This book is essential reading for anyone providing counsel and care in their church.--Larry Albrecht, Administrative Minister, Crossroads Christian Church, Johnson City, TennesseeJack Holland is the Russell F. and Marian J. Blowers professor of Christian ministries at Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan College. Jack frequently conducts workshops and seminars in lay-counseling, ministerial ethics, sexuality, grief, and other pastoral care issues.