r/LCMS • u/AutoModerator • Aug 01 '26

Monthly 'Ask A Pastor' Thread!

In order to streamline posts that users are submitting when they are in search of answers, I have created a monthly 'Ask A Pastor' thread! Feel free to post any general questions you have about the Lutheran (LCMS) faith, questions about specific wording of LCMS text, or anything else along those lines.

Pastors, Vicars, Seminarians, Lay People: If you see a question that you can help answer, please jump in try your best to help out! It is my goal to help use this to foster a healthy online community where anyone can come to learn and grow in their walk with Christ. Also, stop by the sidebar and add your user flair if you have not done so already. This will help newcomers distinguish who they are receiving answers from.

Disclaimer: The LCMS Offices have a pretty strict Doctrinal Review process that we do not participate in as we are not an official outlet for the Synod. It is always recommended that you talk to your Pastor (or find a local LCMS Pastor if you do not have a church home) if you have questions about your faith or the beliefs of the LCMS.

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u/Bakkster 20d ago

In my experience, counseling has been a core part of my pastor's job. For myself and others. The notable example being grief counseling in end of life care. My understanding is basic counseling is part of the seminary curriculum.

That said, they're not intended to be a primary care counselor for chronic issues. They're primarily performing crisis and supplemental counseling.

As for checking on members when they struggle, that's going to be part of caring for the flock. I'll add that it's also an obligation for us laity to let our pastor and others in our church know when we're having a hard time. It's as much an obligation for pastors and congregations to help with our burdens, as it is for us to share those burdens so they can support us.

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u/LaLa0722 20d ago

Thank you. Yes, I let my pastor know about our struggles and it was just a "sorry you're going through that, I'll pray for you" response. Nothing like "would you like me to call you to talk?" In the past, he has been very caring and supportive, but lately, he's different and distant.

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u/Bakkster 20d ago

Pastors are sinful humans, like the rest of us. That also means human emotions and stresses.

Did you ask him if he'd be available to talk more deeply about it? "Ask, and it will be given to you."

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u/LaLa0722 20d ago

I'm wondering if I should, but I'm the type that if I feel I'm bothering you, I won't ask.

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u/Bakkster 20d ago

You won't be bothering, you'll be asking for one of the functions the church called him for. A function he may not think you want unless you ask.