Recently, we held a confidential space to check in with a small group of pastors. Through a series of virtual gatherings, we met with a representative group of clergy from different contexts and stages of ministry. Our goal was to see what their needs are in this uniquely challenging ministry season. Listening deeply to our clergy friends has been helpful in understanding some of the pressures clergy are feeling and how they see their ministry moving forward.
The Conference Leadership Team, which includes Bishop Fairley, the Cabinet, Conference staff, and our Conference Lay Leader, is using pastors’ feedback to shape responses. While some new initiatives are needed, there are also ways to more effectively deliver and communicate helpful resourcing that the Conference offers.
Leadership Team sub-groups have been meeting to address four identified areas of need:
Relationship–How can we re-establish strong connections between the Cabinet and pastors, the Conference staff/leadership and pastors, and strengthen the connections among pastors, thereby developing support systems?
Relief–Many clergy have been experiencing decision fatigue from the frequently changing worship practices and adapting COVID protocols since March 2020. In response, how can we offer respite more broadly through pulpit supply and renewal leave?
Resources–Increasing awareness and improving resources available to clergy for mental health and counseling. Also, finding ways for clergy to gather in retreat settings to deepen spiritual formation.
Retooling–Acknowledging that ministry has changed, how can we equip leaders for sustainable and adaptive leadership where pastors can live fully into their callings?
As the Leadership Team moves forward in both short and long-term work, we will continue to send updates through the Connections newsletter. If you have any questions or feedback, please email Leah Wiebe-Smith at lwiebesmith@nccumc.org.