Where do hurting ministers go for help? Who will minister to those who minister to others?
Many ministers get discouraged in their demanding jobs, yet are reluctant to admit they need help. Asking for help is seen by some as a sign of weakness. And, interestingly, many who minister to scores of others in their churches and communities don’t have a trusted friend with whom to share their struggles.
Add to these factors the epidemic of involuntary terminations, and there is indeed a crisis in American ministry.
Charles Chandler of Richmond, Va., founded an organization several years ago called “Ministering to Ministers” (MTM) to offer help to hurting ministers.
“We have many professionals — doctors, counselors and lawyers — who offer their expertise to pastors and other ministers,” said Chandler. “We’re happy to put inquirers in touch with [them]. There are trusted people out there who will listen and try to help.”
Additionally MTM offers eight or 10 wellness retreats each year across the country. These retreats bring together a number of professionals who share their skills with hurting ministers.
“We normally have a professional counselor or psychiatrist to lead study sessions and do group and individual therapy,” said Chandler. “Someone else directs the Myers-Briggs inventory to help ministers learn more about their personalities and passions. We also have a session on health and fitness, one on the therapeutic value of humor and a session on marketing your skills for those who’ve faced termination. We estimate each participant receives the equivalent of $1,200–$1,500 worth of counseling and therapy, but the retreat is offered without charge. The only expense to participants is their travel. Our board, churches and other interested persons pick up the expenses.”
This year’s Alabama MTM retreat will be held at Judson College in Marion. Noted Christian psychiatrist and author Ross Campbell of Chattanooga, Tenn., will participate as will Dale Huff of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions. Judson professors John Huelskoetter and Ruth Kastenmeyer will also assist.
Many needs are represented at the wellness retreats. One pastor found renewed strength after being fired by his church.
A rumor circulated which led to his firing, though the rumor was later proven untrue. The damage was done, and he was broken and without work.
Another pastor struggled with a rebellious teenage daughter, and some in his church thought since his own home wasn’t “under control,” he should leave.
A minister from Virginia wrestled with his future after a self-appointed committee came to visit and suggested he resign for the good of the church.
“We can’t do everything in just a week,” said Chandler, “but we can offer a foundation. … We see a lot of heartbreak, but we also see the rebirth of hope.”
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