Girls’ Brigade Ministries (GBM) is thankful to our leaders across England and Wales who are working tirelessly to invest in girls and young women in their local communities.
We know your role comes with so much fun and many rewards – especially as girls become more confident and discover Jesus – but it also comes with challenges and difficulties. The culture that children and young people are growing up in today can present so many opportunities but also significant challenges for them as they try to discover who God created them to be. As safe and trusted adults to GB members, you’ll have been asked difficult questions, you’ll have heard the doubts and anxieties, and you’ll have helped to wipe away the tears.
We hope that these new GBM pastoral care principles will help to support you in your important role as you journey alongside young people. In fact, as GB leaders working with girls and young women, you’ll have been living and breathing them for a long time! We hope that these pastoral care principles will be useful to you and your team as we seek to ensure that every GB community group is a place of belonging for all of God’s people.
- Unconditional love
We offer love that is unconditional and allows a young person to embrace their wholeness in Christ. - Welcoming
Although we recognise that there are a range of different theological perspectives on many issues, we’re explicit in our welcome of all young people and our compassion towards them. - Safeplace
GB is a place of safety and belonging for all of God’s people where GB leaders are well-equipped and supported to engage with young people on issues that matter to them. - Wholeness
We show an interest in all aspects of a young person’s life – not just their struggles. - Authenticity
We model and welcome integrity and authenticity in our words, actions, and relationships. - Informed
We acknowledge that your church ultimately has responsibility for overseeing your GB group and it’s important to understand its teaching on a variety of issues.