Distinction from Other Forms of Pastoral Care It is important to distinguish spiritual direction from other forms of pastoral care. A good way to do so is to look at the purpose of the caring relationship. In other forms of pastoral care, the pastor might seek to provide information about a particular faith tradition, to comfort someone before surgery, to relieve anxiety, to solve family problems, to clarify ethical dilemmas, or to provide companionship. Through God’s grace, these sorts of pastoral