February is American Heart Month. Most of us, however, simply
think of Valentine’s Day. Our theme this month, therefore, is
on hearts—hearts in relationships which are
strong, hearts in relationships which are struggling, hearts which
are hurting or broken.
We recently had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Gary Chapman. Many
of you know him as the author of more than a dozen books on marriage,
family, and relationships. Our Board and staff know him as a strong
supporter and encourager of ACC. Be sure to read his thoughts on Christian
counseling.
In keeping with our theme, Dr. Chapman also described some of his
insights on marriage from his 33-year experience as a pastor and counselor.
Jane Bailey, an ACC therapist who often works with couples, is also
featured this month.
We hope your heart will be encouraged.
Dr. Joe Verga
Executive Director, ACC
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|  CHRISTIAN
COUNSELING
An Interview with Dr. Gary Chapman
Dr. Chapman is well known as an author and speaker. He has conducted
his marriage seminars around the country and around the world at
the invitation of churches, governments, and the military. He is
also Senior Associate Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem,
where he has served for 33 years. We asked him to share his thoughts
on Christian counseling.
Do you see a role for counseling to play in the Body of
Christ?
I believe that in the life of all churches, counseling is a necessary
part because of today’s culture. There are more broken and
fractured people, more divorces, and more abuse, both verbal and
physical. People live with pressure and stress, which often leads
to anger, which may then be expressed at home against the family.
How would you describe the unique role of Christian counseling?
As a pastor, I have to begin with my view of discipleship. I believe
discipleship is taking a Christian where he is, and helping him
become more like Jesus. Generally, people do this by hearing a message,
then applying it to their lives. Some folks will need more help
than others to be able to grow simply by hearing a sermon. They
may need individual help dealing with issues in their lives, or
from their past, in order to move forward with growth toward Christ-likeness.
This is where a Christian counselor becomes a partner in ministry.
What about seeing a pastor?
When I was in seminary, only a few courses were offered on counseling.
That has changed today, but pastors' plates are full. They cannot
do it all. Most pastors I meet are thrilled when they have access
to Christian counselors to whom they may refer people.
As you travel, what attitude do you sense regarding counseling?
People in general no longer see going for counseling as a sign of
failure. If their body hurts, they go to see the doctor. If their
heart hurts, they go to see a counselor.
What encouragement would you give to pastors regarding
Christian counseling?
Most pastors I meet are very accepting of Christian counseling.
I believe they should view Christian counselors as colleagues. If
the goal of a pastor is discipleship and growth toward Christ-likeness
in his congregation, a Christian counselor may be just the resource
person he needs.
Associates in Christian Counseling has been honored to have
Dr. Chapman as the featured speaker at our annual banquets in 2001
and 2004. For more information on his books and ministry, visit
www.garychapman.org.
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HE LOVES ME, HE LOVES ME NOT...
Everywhere you go, there are reminders that Valentine’s Day
is nearly here. The romantic choices are endless—candy, cards,
candlelight dinners. But how do we make it from hearts and flowers
to a commitment that lasts a lifetime? ACC therapist, Jane Bailey,
LPC, shares insights for success from her work with couples.
Read
More
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And they lived
happily ever after…
Every bride and groom anticipates
happily ever after. Someone once said, “Life is what happens
while we’re making other plans.” How does life, impact
happily ever after? Dr. Gary Chapman shares some of his insights.
Read
More
Group Therapy Works!
Professionally led group therapy has been shown
to be a very effective method for resolving issues because it provides
a unique treatment experience in the context of a safe community.
Four groups will be forming
at ACC
For women:
- A therapy group focusing on resolving emotional
and relational issues.
Participants will gain strength and find community through connecting
with others in a safe atmosphere that encourages authenticity.
- A weight management group focusing on behavioral,
emotional, and spiritual issues related to weight and body image.
For information about either group, contact
Rebecca Lowry, LPC, at 896-0065, x207.
For men:
- A therapy group for those seeking personal and
emotional growth. If you need community or accountability in a
safe environment, this is the group for you.
For information, contact Dr. Heath Greene,
at 896-0065, x209.
For everyone:
- An educational group on overcoming negative
patterns in thinking.
If you or a loved one struggles with excessive worry, negative
self-image, doubt, or related issues, this group can help.
For information, contact Mr. Kim Whitehurst,
LPC, at 896-0065, x204.
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BOOK REVIEWS
Boundaries in Dating
Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend Zondervan, 2000.
Discover how to set and maintain healthy boundaries that make for
smart, enjoyable dating and for joy in that special relationship
of a lifetime.
Boundaries in Marriage
Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend Zondervan, 2002.
Helps couples move beyond friction points to mutual care, respect,
and intimacy.
Covenant Marriage
Dr. Gary Chapman
Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2003
Focuses on developing a covenant marriage relationship, mirroring
God’s covenant relationship with His people, in order to improve
the crucial aspects of a relationship—communication and intimacy.
The Five Love Languages
Dr. Gary Chapman
Northfield Publishing, Chicago, 1992, 1995.
Describes the 5 love languages then helps couples identify their
own in order for them to learn how to express heartfelt commitment
to their mate.
Safe Haven Marriage
Dr. Arch Hart and Dr. Sharon Hart Morris
W. Publishing Company, 2003
This father/daughter team share practical tools that will help you
recognize your patterns of relating to each other and transform
your marriage into a place of
emotional connectedness and safety.
Toward a Growing Marriage
Dr. Gary Chapman
Moody Press, 1979, 1996
Discusses areas vital to marital harmony such as communication,
conflict, change, finances, and sex.
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First Come, First
Served |
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ACC’s 6th
Annual Banquet
Tuesday, April 5th, at 6:30PM
Featured speaker: Ruth Graham
On-line registration will begin shortly. You will
receive an e-mail announcement when it is available.
For those interested in event, business, or table sponsorships,
act now by contacting Rick Cole at 896-0065, ext. 205 or via
email.
For more banquet or sponsor information, CLICK
HERE
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| Wish
List |
| At
this time, ACC is in need of:
2 laptop computers,
Pentium 2 or newer
If you’re in a position to help, we’d
love to hear from you!
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