The work that reaches past the counseling room.

Most of what people need is not a counseling relationship. It is a minister at the bedside. A couple prepared before the wedding rather than repaired after it. A pastor who needs somewhere to think out loud, or a church that wants its people equipped to care for one another.

Pillar Three is how we strengthen the Church and serve people well outside a counselor's caseload. It is also where we raise up the next generation of counselors, so that fewer people get sent away.

Marriage ministry

Premarital counseling

A six-session course for couples preparing to marry. Curriculum, workbook exercises you do together, and an optional assessment. See the course.

Wedding officiating

Ordained ministers of RCA officiate weddings across California, often for couples who complete the premarital course. You do not need to be a Christian or a church member. See wedding officiating.

Marriage enrichment

The same work, for couples already married. Not because something is broken, but because a marriage is worth deliberate attention long after the wedding.

Additional services

Chaplaincy

The ministry of presence, under its own written standards.

Penitential communication

Confession heard by a trained minister, in person, under clergy privilege at full strength. No record, no report, no file. Not yet open. Read more.

Consultation

For pastors, church leaders, and organizations: a place to think through a situation, a policy, or a care program with someone who does this work.

Education and training

Courses, seminars, pastoral-care training, and mentorship of counselors in formation.

Community teaching and events

Workshops, conference speaking, church partnerships, and public teaching on care and mental health from a biblical frame.

Resources

Written, recorded, and published materials advancing the mission.