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Source: churchleadership.org
A path toward burnout
Between constant pressure to create growth, bearing the emotional burdens of their flock, and the need to perfect an ever changing skill set in order to remain relevant, it's no wonder that 90% of pastors leave ministry before retirement. Without a safe and understanding outlet through which to learn how to cope with the pressures of ministry, nearly every pastor is on a collision course with burnout, failure, or worse.
But this can be prevented with supportive relationships that aren't about job performance. With a coach that understands the unique difficulties pastors face with boundaries, pressure, and anxiety, pastors can learn to create healthy balance.
We are hoping to change this
Meet Bob and Janet Lehman
With over 40 years of ministry experience, Bob and Janet have worked in nearly every aspect of pastoral ministry. Bob has served as a Lead Pastor, Chaplain, and Church Planting Coordinator for the Southwestern US, in addition to planting two churches himself. Most recently he planted Arizona Hills Church in North Phoenix, which is now in its 18th year of serving its community.
Janet has been with Bob every step of the way, leading ministries and walking with people through both the good and the bad. Together, Bob and Janet decided to retire from the vocational pastorate in order to focus on mentoring and encouraging church leaders who themselves need a pastor to turn to.
Relationships with Roots
Event Retreats
Event retreats get a pastor and his wife away from the daily grind of ministry, when another Sunday is always around the corner, and there is no limit to the amount of hours that could be spent at the office. By taking a few days to spend in quiet and to really unpack their story with Bob and Janet, a groundwork is formed for a lasting, trusting relationship.
Meeting Together
Monthly one-on-one meetings gets a pastor away from his office into a recurring meeting in a neutral setting. Unlike other ministry conversations, this one has nothing to do with numbers, staff management, and the next trend in outreach. This meeting is about the emotional health of the pastor and his family, ensuring that his good work doesn't isolate him from the very people he is called to lead.
Regular Check-ins
Regular check-ins can be as simple as a quick phone call to follow up on a prior discussion, or to share a prayer before a pastor goes into a difficult meeting. They can also take the form of a semi-annual cohort meeting of pastors that have an affinity in ministry that goes beyond talking shop. Ministry health is like golf; never stop practicing.