"The Shepherd’s Covenant" Keeps Pastors AccountableFocus on the Family New Focus on the Family Program Addresses Moral Decline Among Clergy In response to the growing number of clergy falling prey to adultery, pornography, and other devastating behaviors, Focus on the Family encourages pastors of all denominations to commit to "The Shepherd's Covenant". This new program was created to repeatedly remind pastors of their responsibility to God, their families, congregations, and one another. By signing the covenant and wearing the shepherd's crook lapel pin, pastors agree to live by the five guidelines outlined in the covenant, based on the acronym G.R.A.C.E.: 
"Nearly everywhere we look we see pastors in moral decline," said H.B. London Jr., vice president of Ministry Outreach/Pastoral Ministries at Focus on the Family. "'The Shepherd's Covenant' is a dream of mine, to hold pastors accountable to their ordination vows and to protect them from the temptations of the world." In addition to pastors signing the covenant, wearing the pin, and alerting the congregation of the promises made, the program is also meant to create accountability between participants. Each pastor who signs the covenant is asked to find another colleague who will hold him accountable and vice-versa. Clergy interested in joining the 1,650 pastors who have already requested information can call 1-800-A-FAMILY or visit www.parsonage.org. A covenant package will be mailed to those who inquire about the program, including "The Shepherd's Covenant" card that the pastor signs and returns to Focus on the Family.
For more information, or to contact Focus on the Family, see their website at: www.family.org |
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