Description
Book SynopsisMinistry has never been an easy path, and the challenges of today’s changing church landscape only heighten the stress and burn-out of congregational leaders. A Guide to Ministry Self-Care offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of both the causes of stress and strategies for effective self-care. Written for both new and long-time ministers, the book draws on current research and offers practical and spiritual insights into building and maintaining personal health and sustaining ministry long term. The book addresses a wide range of life situations and explores many forms of self-care, from physical and financial to relational and spiritual.
Trade ReviewA Guide to Ministry Self-Care provides clergy with a thoughtful, well-researched, comprehensive, and practical design for the kind of personal self-care without which fruitful ministry is impossible. Pastors at all stages of their ministries will find a multitude of ways to enhance their lives and work. -- Lovett H. Weems, Jr., distinguished professor of church leadership, Wesley Theological Seminary
Table of ContentsPreface Part I: The Need for Self-Care 1.Ministering during a Rummage Sale after a Perfect Storm 2.Self-Care in a Variety of Ministries 3.Burnout and Compassion Fatigue 4.Stress Part II: Strategies of Self-Care 5.A Starting Place: Resilience 6.Spiritual Self-Care 7.Relational Self-Care 8.Physical Self-Care 9.Self-Care through Inner Wisdom 10.Self-Care through Laughter and Play 11.Financial Self-Care 12.Intellectual Self-Care 13.Basic Steps to Self-Care 14.A Theology of Self-Care Notes Bibliography About the Authors
