As the trends are improving and we are beginning to see our way out of the pandemic, we recognize that it has been and may continue to be an incredibly difficult ministry season. Faith leaders may be feeling the threat of burnout.

Many, maybe you, have found this journey through the pandemic to be lonely and stress-filled. Your church members and community have looked to you to help them navigate great pain, anxiety, anger, fear, disappointment, discouragement, grief, and loss. But how have you been holding up? Where have you been able to find support, renewal, and respite in this pandemic wilderness?

Did You Know?

The conference and denomination have provided resources for pastors through counseling and consultation services, Wespath’s First Aid for Mental Health programs, and free webinars from the Center for Leadership Excellence on trauma, anxiety, grief, and preaching.

We’ve Got Your Back

There are persons ready and willing to come to your church on a Sunday to give you a much-needed break. Find them at the following:

• Certified Lay Speakers
• Camp & Retreat Ministries Directors: contact Dail Ballard (dail@ncumcamps.org) for more information

It’s Okay To Get Away

There are opportunities for you to retreat, rest, and renew within our conference at:

• Camp Chestnut Ridge – The Wardlaw Cabin: $35/night
• Camp Don Lee – The Wardlaw Cabin: $35/night
• Camp Rockfish – Bergland Adult Retreat Center
• Cedar Cross Retreat Center
• Duke Divinity School Leave for Ministry Professionals
• The Trinity Center – The Pelican House

And also outside of our conference at:

• Hinton Rural Life Center
• Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center (Recharge & Renew Package)
• St. Francis Springs Prayer Center
• The Davidson Centre

Remember – Help Is Available

If you are struggling and need some mental health support, there are resources available and financial assistance for confidential counseling.

We Appreciate You!

We thank you for all you have done during these times of anxiety, grief, and discouragement – for your faithfulness, courage, and resiliency. We strongly encourage you to take time for your own physical and mental well-being so you can continue to be the dynamic, loving, and creative leader God is calling you to be.

Photo: Unsplash / Aaron Burden