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<\/a>Together they explored the problem of human aloneness, by reflecting on the story of The Good Samaritan. They learned how to help people feel less alone by listening out for their relational needs, and responding to them with warmth. Relational needs are our human longings for compassion, comfort, encouragement, respect, support, affection, acceptance, attention, appreciation, approval, and security. The group also learned how to build healthy relationships using the Romans 12:15 guidelines of celebrating with those who are happy, and being sad with those who are sad.<\/p>\nThe training included other topics, such as balancing your emotions and helping other people to balance theirs; creative ways to manage conflicts; and simple skills to help pastors and carers manage difficult conversations and relationships when supporting people in painful and challenging situations.<\/p>\n
\u201cEach time someone comes to church, or talks to us, they need to know that God loves them and that another human being cares for them too,\u201d says Karen. \u201cI am delighted that the Lithuanian Conference is so eager to minister to hurting people. They are in our own homes, our own churches, and our own communities. God calls us to be filled with His love and compassion for all who are hurting so that we can be channels of His care and concern.\u201d<\/p>\n