Keeping Our Pastors Healthy

by Conference Minister Ron Hamilton

I recall a lively discussion that took place a few years ago as CCCC leaders worked to prioritize the guiding values that they were proposing to the Conference. Everyone agreed that the number one value should be A Culture of Believing Prayer and Intercession. The remainder of the conversation did not reflect the same level of unity. While we felt strongly about all seven values, we struggled with this matter of prioritization.

After much prayer and dialogue, the group determined that Healthy Pastors would be the second priority as we agreed that we are never stronger than our leaders. The Bible has much to say about the role of the Pastor/Shepherd. But no teaching is more profound than what we find in Hebrews.

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. (Hebrews 13:7)

As Biblical Congregationalists, we value the role that every member plays in the work of the church. But the impact of the spiritual leader is very significant. The Scriptures teach that spiritual leaders are to be an example to others, who, as they observe their way of life may imitate their faith. Healthy pastors who humbly serve Jesus produce healthy, disciple-making congregations who reproduce.

The Conference has initiated a process to support our pastors and encourage the healthy development of their lives, their families and their ministries. We envision the development of pastoral communities, led by trained Community Pastors, where pastors meet regularly for fellowship and encouragement. We trust that these communities will:

1. Draw pastors out of isolation and into community with other pastors who may be encountering some of the same issues in life and in the church.
2. Broaden the perspective of each pastor beyond his/her own church, seeing different ways of organizing the congregation, developing programs, and empowering lay leaders.
3. Prevent crisis situations in the life of the pastor and in the life of the church, as pastors share openly and receive wise counsel on the difficult situations they are facing in their ministry.
4. Create new opportunities to learn about effective church ministry and healthy family relationships through the content presented at Pastoral Community meetings (reading books together, going through curriculum).
5. Create deep and ongoing friendships between pastors — pastors and their families connect outside of the group.

I am privileged to participate in a pastoral community that meets monthly in our area. I am very encouraged by this group and am excited to meet regularly with pastors who want to be healthy and serve the Lord effectively. My spiritual growth and development are enriched by this group.

Please join me in praying for the CCCC efforts to develop healthy pastors.