Testimonials

“In my role working with conference leaders of our denomination Melissa Hofstetter [Founder of Shepherd Heart] has helped to clarify the complex issues of mandatory report and the various state requirements regionally. Her study and competency in this area serves church leaders well to lean on as we learn together in this important area…

…I highly recommend using Dr. Melissa Hofstetter to help educate church leaders on the topic of mandatory reporting and other topics in her skill set. Her pastoral presence and academic excellence connects well with leaders from a variety of backgrounds. “

–Terry Shue,

Director of Leadership Development,

Mennonite Church USA

“Dr. Hofstetter provided boundary training for all clergy members of the Desert Southwest Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. Her teaching was relevant, accessible, thought provoking, and a great help for those seeking to be in ministry with integrity during these shifting times.”

–Rev. Dan Hurlbert

Chairperson,

Desert Southwest Board of Ordained Ministry

“As a presenter for a workshop about response to sexual abuse and domestic violence in the church context, Melissa was both professional and compassionate, using practical examples to help participants understand the concepts she was presenting. Her presentation was informed by clinical perspectives, legal knowledge, pastoral sensitivity, and theological understanding of these complex subjects.”

–Heidi Regier Kreider

Conference Minister

Western District Conference,

Mennonite Church USA

“Dr. Hofstetter brings a warm pastoral heart and a sharp clinical mind to bear on the conversation between therapy and ministry that needs to be happening. With excellent academic training and professional resources, Dr. Hofstetter is building a much needed bridge between ministry and therapy. As a clergyperson who has greatly benefited from her work, I highly recommend Shepherd Heart Ministry Consulting to all of my ministry peers. “

–Rev. Matthew Yoder,

Lead Pastor

Bluffton, Ohio

“After attending the training, I felt more confident about what to expect and to look out for both as a children & youth minister and a leader of those who work with children and youth. It was an engaging experience that gave me guidance regarding managing some of the most difficult situations that occur in ministry.”

–Rev. Angela Gorrell, Ph.D.

Associate Research Scholar,

Yale Center for Faith and Culture Lecturer in Divinity and Humanities,

Yale University

“Dr. Melissa Hofstetter does an excellent job at presenting important questions and information regarding ethics, health, and safety-oriented issues that come up in ministry. She equips leaders with tools and knowledge that are needed before such scenarios arise, and she has the experience and expertise to speak to the nuances of one’s specific congregational circumstances. On top of that, her warm wisdom and presence are a comfort when difficult things need to be discussed.”

–Mariann Reardon

Co-Pastor

Pasadena, California

“Friends who are pastors, I want to make you aware of this resource available to you. …I have watched the founder in action in her professional capacity, and she is brilliant, sensitive and consummately professional.”

–Mary Sue Ingraham,

Church Lay Leader,

Phoenix, AZ

Care, Consultation, & Continuing Education for Ministry Leaders