In this episode of The Care Ministry Podcast, Laura Howe is joined by David Barter, pastor, ministry coach, and the lead for Hope Made Strong’s work in Australia.

David shares how his own experience with depression, anxiety, and burnout shaped his passion for helping churches care well. Together, Laura and David talk about the reality many churches face—they want to help, but often aren’t sure how.

This conversation also introduces Hope Made Strong’s next step toward global hubs, starting in Australia. Not as a new organization, but as a way to deepen connection, offer culturally relevant support, and better serve care leaders in their local context.

This episode is especially helpful for leaders who feel like they are carrying too much alone and are looking for a more shared, relational approach to care.

“I really started to think about it—well, what am I doing that maybe not that I shouldn’t be doing, but that somebody else could do?”
David Barter

“People need to be empowered across the church to do the work of the ministry.”
David Barter

“The work of the ministry basically is to care for people and disciple each other.”
David Barter

“We’ve always had a global community at Hope Made Strong… but this is about making that feel more connected, more relational, and more rooted in local context.”
Laura Howe

A Better Way - Website

The Church Mental Health Summit

Email David - [email protected]

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Website: HopeMadeStrong.org
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