Ministry Aspect #1: Crisis Intervention
The first aspect of Leavener is crisis intervention. Leavener hopes to come along side individuals, couples, families, churches and church staff as they go through their initial crisis. At the moment the crisis occurs, there is shock, grief and indecision. Leavener desires to support, help and love them through their crisis. Indiscretions occur with individuals, couples, families and churches all the time. It is during these times they need to hear the Good News of God's grace. Sometimes they just need to know that someone cares.
As the Leavener community grows, it involves many to help through a multitude of crisis situations. In Acts, the community of believers gave all they had to one another. Leavener has established the ministry to receive donations to minister to those who are going through crisis and in need. Leavener is recognized by the state of Indiana and the federal government as a tax exempt nonprofit ministry. Although donations are helpful in many situations, it will still be important to minister to physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
It is not Leavener's intention to do long term counseling. In fact, we have met with a team of local counselors and shared the ministry of Leavener. They have already been helpful in counseling this community and even declared a desire to refer situations to Leavener.
As for myself, this is where the Lord has lead me in the last 7-8 years. I would have considered myself to be a "program" guy at one point in my ministry. But I definitely have a different mindset and desire to minister to people by teaching them about forgiveness and grace.
Rusty
Added by joshdeckard on October 4, 2007 2:43 pm. Last Updated on August 13, 2008 11:19 pm.
Bogdan Calin said
It's been a while since someone posted on here... The Crisis Intervention is alive and strong. I've now been on both ends of a crisis intervention. Thank you Rusty... Thank you Leavener... Thank you Jesus!
on August 15, 2009 1:51 pm
anonymous said
Speaking from someone who has gone through a crisis and not knowing where to turn to first- I feel such a need for this type of ministry within my community. Sad to say, but my church didn't come up along side of me during that situation and then when I did ask for help I was asked "What would you like us to do for you?" I couldn't answer right then, but just being there, present, maybe not even speaking just praying would have helped. God Bless You and all that you encounter in this new ministry!
on September 13, 2007 4:17 pm
anonymous said
There is no doubt that the Hand of the Lord is upon you, brother. There is a huge, huge need for exactly what you are doing. So many times I hear believer say to others going through crisis, "I'll pray for you, brother" Well, yes please pray for me, but what about offering some direction, perhaps a ministry of encouragement or even just a hug. Oh my goodness, thank you Lord Jesus for the Vision of my brother, Rusty. Please give him wisdom beyond his years. Most of all give Rusty eyes to see and ears to hear the cries of the flock. It is said, " Many are Called but few are chosen"
on September 13, 2007 1:17 pm