Christian Leaders! You are not alone.

What do you consider the main pastoral and spiritual health needs of church leaders?

I was asked this question this week after the tragic suicide of a young pastor and family man in California. The feelings of loneliness amongst other things had completely over whelmed him.

The answers may vary depending on the specific person. The needs of a young church leader could be very different from those of an older more experienced church leader. However in my experience from talking too pastors and leaders from different church backgrounds there are some commonalities.

From a pastoral point of view the following could be considered among the most urgent to address;

a) Isolationism, the feeling of being alone and not having anyone to talk too despite denominational allegiances. To bridge the gap between fraternal 's and conferences there is a  need for directed and issue focused away-days, this to help the leader feel that they are not alone and to build closer relationships.

b) Personal contact, for a young leader a mentor and for an older leader a confidant. Teaching, equipping and growing  leaders should not only be a short term goal but a long term strategy. Accountability is important it was found in the early church in the book of Acts and should be reflected in all leaders today. A daily telephone call and regular coffee sessions need to be front and centre in the church leaders diary between mentor and mentee.

c) A feeling of inadequacy. A feeling of being ill equipped in areas of training, counselling and at times, life in general. You are not alone talk to someone many have been in the same shoes.

From a spiritual health perspective;

a) Helping the leader to be a self feeder to feed themselves and feel that they are receiving new revelation from the word and from God. Stable and effective church leaders are those who have focus and direction.

b) Being among those of like mind who feed our souls through times of refreshing, Conferences, away-days and visiting speakers to our pulpits help in this regard.

c) Maintaining a personal relationship with Jesus, which is solid and reflects that first love experience.

In conclusion, the need to deal with these issues is essential if we want ensure strong church leaders passing on to the next generation sound, biblical, Christ like principles. We need to ensure that leaders do not feel isolated, are well trained and able to cope with the rigours of Pastoral  life. That they have someone who can come along side them and hear without judgement the inner thoughts of their hearts. And lastly to help them focus on Jesus and the relationship He wants with them.

I pray that I have not sounded too trite in my response. The loss of anyone to suicide hurts the body of Christ, losing a fellow pastor and church leader more so.