The SHEPHERDS WAY
A Ministry of Spiritual Direction, Discernment and Pastoral Encouragement
The Shepherd’s Way is a pastoral care ministry of spiritual direction—created for seasons when life feels heavy and direction feels unclear. There are times when people we love feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of the way forward—spiritually, relationally, or personally. As family members and friends, we often sense that help is needed, but we may not know how to encourage support in a way that feels gentle, respectful, and hopeful. The Shepherd’s Way exists for moments like these.
Rooted in the biblical image of Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd, The Shepherd’s Way reflects His tender care for those who are weary, wounded, or uncertain. Scripture says, “He restores my soul; he leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3). This ministry is not about fixing people, but about walking with them as Christ restores their souls—helping them notice where God is already at work and how they can respond in faith.
As a pastoral care ministry of spiritual direction, The Shepherd’s Way offers a safe and prayerful space where individuals or couples can slow down, listen, and discern God’s presence and guidance in their real lives. It is not therapy, diagnosis, or long-term counseling. Instead, it is a gentle, Scripture-centered process of listening—to God, to one’s own heart, and to the wisdom of the Spirit—so that people can regain spiritual footing and take their next faithful steps.
Through conversation, prayer, and reflection on Scripture, The Shepherd’s Way helps people come honestly before God—without pretending or hiding—and learn again how to worship Him in spirit and truth. Those who come are not treated as problems to be solved, but as beloved sons and daughters to be heard, seen, prayed for, and guided back into the Shepherd’s care. As hearts are restored, worship becomes more than something they do—it becomes who they are, lived out daily in the presence of the Good ShepherdThere are seasons in life when people we love feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of the way forward—spiritually, relationally, or personally. As family members and friends, we often sense that help is needed, but we may not know how to encourage support in a way that feels gentle, respectful, and hopeful.
how we help you and your loved ones ...
The Shepherd’s Way provides a safe, prayerful space for individuals or couples to:
- reflect on their spiritual lives and relationships
- gain perspective on patterns or circumstances contributing to discouragement or conflict
- listen for God’s guidance through Scripture and prayer
- discern next steps toward healing, stability, and growth
- receive encouragement without judgment or pressure
This ministry is not therapy and not long-term counseling. Rather, it serves as a first step in spiritual direction, pastoral discernment, mentoring, and helping people clarify what kind of support may best serve them so that they can move forward to experience the abundant life our Good Shepherd has promised to all who follow Him as Savior and Lord.
How pastoral care is offered
Spiritual direction through The Shepherd’s Way is flexible and respectful. Those receiving care may choose the approach that feels most appropriate for their situation, including:
- Individual spiritual direction sessions
- Couple sessions
- A combination of individual and couple sessions
Often, individuals begin on their own and later include a spouse or partner as appropriate. The goal is always clarity, restoration, and forward movement.
All sessions are:
- conducted via Zoom
- scheduled in one-hour increments
- intentionally time-limited and focused.
when additional support is needed ...
As discernment unfolds, it sometimes becomes clear that specialized support would be helpful—such as licensed marital counseling, trauma-informed therapy, or other professional care.
When this is the case, referrals to trusted, licensed Christian therapists can be provided. The Shepherd’s Way is designed to complement—not replace—professional counseling or the ongoing care of a local church.
A ministry of partnership and support
The Shepherd’s Way is offered on a donation basis, rather than a fixed fee. This reflects a shared understanding that pastoral care flourishes best as a partnership—between the ministry, those receiving spiritual direction, and, when appropriate, family members or friends who wish to support their loved ones as they move forward. This approach keeps the ministry relational, accessible, and prayerfully supported.
Our pastoral caregivers listen prayerfully, offer biblical wisdom, and encourage discernment, always pointing people toward Christ and toward healthy engagement in the life of the Church.
An invitation, not an obligation
For those who care deeply about someone who may be struggling, The Shepherd’s Way offers a gentle place to begin. It is not a commitment, not a diagnosis, and not a long-term program—simply an invitation to pause, listen, and seek God’s direction with support.
If you are considering sharing this ministry with a family member or friend, you may do so when the time feels right, trusting that the Good Shepherd knows how to guide each step.
“Now may the God of peace… equip you with everything good that you may do his will.”
— Hebrews 13:20–21
The Shepherds Way is a special ministry of Worship Equippers for Christ. For more information please contact office at 703.297.8139 or email DSchultz@worshipequippers.org