Each Church Letter Writing Tip builds off an acrostic based on the words “Church Letters”. At the bottom of each tip is a free sample church letter which may be used within your own church communications. This letter may not be posted on any competitive website.
Church Letter Writing Tip 3
Our third lesson in “13 Tips For Church Letter Writing Success” will build off the letter “U” in our Church Letters acrostic.
So far, we have looked at the following: C – Be Clear H – Be Hopeful
Now we will take a look at:
U – Be Understanding
We often fail to put ourselves into the “shoes of another” and thereby do not understand the situation they are going through.
The most difficult time to understand is when we have not gone through the situation in our own lives. We will find this to be the case very often in our ministry to others, however it is in those situations we must ask for the help of the Holy Spirit to provide the right level of understanding and compassion to properly minister to them.
We can often be too caught up in thinking of what our response is going to be even before the person is done talking. When we do this, we are “hearing”, but not “listening”.
Even when writing cards or letters, we can get too “preachy” when the person just needs to know we are there for them if, and when they are ready to share with us on a more personal level.
When you don't understand immediately, at least have the attitude and spirit conveyed to them that you are open to learning more about the situation, and praying with them as the need arises.
Below is your third complimentary letter which you may modify and use in your own church communications.
(Sympathy Letter – Loss of a Loved One)
I am writing to express to you my greatest sympathy as you cope with the passing of your (family member). Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family during what must be the most trying of times.
In our times of loss, we can sometimes find ourselves overwhelmed with feelings of confusion and sorrow. Hopelessness and despair may well up in our hearts, and it can seem as though comfort is beyond our reach, but as Jesus Christ tells us, “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4) Your family here at Christian Life Church wants you to know that we will continue to be here for you to provide that comfort and assistance. Your grief is ours, and we want you to know that you are not alone.
While your grief may seem insurmountable, I am compelled to remind you that there is no weight of the soul that our savior Jesus Christ cannot help you bear. He is with you and wants you to trust in him as you cope with your sorrow. Never forget to allow him into your heart so that he may heal your wounds and relieve your pain. As Jesus says to all of us, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.”
I want you to know that I am available to you and your family as your pastor, as well as your brother/sister in Christ. My prayers and deepest sympathies are with you and if there is anything we at Christian Life can do to help, do not hesitate to let us know. Be blessed and trust in God's love.
With the utmost sincerity,
Your Pastor
Church Letter Writing Success 13 Part Mini Course by N. Lawrence of https://churchletters.org
Visit the site for over 50 Categories and over 1,000 Letters written by a Pastor FOR Church and Ministry Leaders.