Where do those that are the helpers for so many go when they need help themselves?
Many ministers get discouraged in their demanding jobs yet are reluctant to admit they need help. Asking for help is seen by some ministers as a sign of weakness.
Interestingly, many who minister to scores of others in their churches and communities don’t have a trusted friend with whom to share their own 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 Ministering to Ministers (MTM) several years ago to offer help to hurting ministers.
“We have many professionals doctors, counselors and lawyers who offer their expertise to pastors and other ministers,” Chandler said.
“We’re happy to put inquirers in touch with these Christian laypeople. 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. Alabama’s conference took place this year at Judson College June 16–20. 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,” Chandler said.
The Myers-Briggs inventory is also offered to help ministers learn more about their personalities and passions.
“We also have a session on health and fitness, the therapeutic value of humor and a session on marketing your job skills,” Chandler said.
“We estimate each participant receives the equivalent of $1,200 to $1,500 worth of counseling and therapy, but the retreat is offered without charge,” he added.
“The only expense to participants is their travel. Our board, churches and other interested persons pick up the expenses,” he said.
“We’re grateful for (Judson president) Dr. Potts’ invitation to come back to Judson,” Chandler said.
Christian psychiatrist and author Ross Campbell of Chattanooga returned to Judson for this year’s retreat.
Dale Huff, director of the office of LeaderCare and Church Administration at the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, led one session.
Judson professors John Huelskoetter and Ruth Kastenmeyer assisted with the conference.
Many needs are represented at the Wellness Retreats.
One pastor found renewed strength after being fired by his church. A rumor had circulated that 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. Some church members thought since his own home wasn’t under control, he should leave.
A children’s worker found herself without a job because the new pastor wanted to bring along his own staff.
“We can’t do everything in just a week, but we can offer a foundation on which to build,” Chandler said. “We see a lot of heartbreak, but we also see the rebirth of hope.”
For more information about helping hurting ministers, contact Dale Huff at 1-800-264-1225.
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