I would second Larry's commendation, it is time we recognize that something is wrong and take steps to address it. However, like many other things I encounter in both the RCA/CRC and churches in general, we are incredibly slow to recognize a problem. Over 10 years ago I was tasked with investigating malfeasance by a fellow pastor. During that investigation I had several conversations with police detectives, and at one point I was asked how often clergy are expected to have a psychological evaluation. I had to admit, that once we are are ordained that kind of check up is no longer called for. The detective told me every time he was promoted, a psychological evaluation was required. Given that one in four clergy suffer from mental illness, maybe it is time we took a look at getting ahead of the problem rather than providing resources at the end. I also wonder that since 1 in 4 clergy will admit to some sexual indiscretion with someone other than their spouse, if there is a connection?
My perspective is that of a long term, "old guy" clergy and a licensed therapist. I hope, that this is just the beginning of the process of looking at clergy health. A few years ago we decided that most of us were overweight and a physical fitness regimen was encouraged, maybe it is time we looked at mental health the same way, and looked closely at what is negatively impacting a group of men and women who in previous generations would have been some of the healthiest people in the population.
Mark, Thanks for your kind words. It is my prayer that this is a first step toward some honest dialog on this subject between more than just you and I. You see I am nearing the end of my career and doing my best to maintain my balance. My concern is for those who have many years to come and as you cite Gibson's article, which I need to find by the way, the idealized pastor is part our collective history and is not likely to change to quickly, unless we as active clergy find ways to support and encourage that kind of self-differentiation which is not generally rewarded.
I would also like to offer my help to be part of the solution rather than someone complaining. I have some theories and ideas I am pondering and hoping to put into practice in the near future. Once again thanks for the willingness to at least raise the issue.
Posted in: 'Guide for a Clergy Leave of Absence for Mental Health Reasons' Toolkit
I would second Larry's commendation, it is time we recognize that something is wrong and take steps to address it. However, like many other things I encounter in both the RCA/CRC and churches in general, we are incredibly slow to recognize a problem. Over 10 years ago I was tasked with investigating malfeasance by a fellow pastor. During that investigation I had several conversations with police detectives, and at one point I was asked how often clergy are expected to have a psychological evaluation. I had to admit, that once we are are ordained that kind of check up is no longer called for. The detective told me every time he was promoted, a psychological evaluation was required. Given that one in four clergy suffer from mental illness, maybe it is time we took a look at getting ahead of the problem rather than providing resources at the end. I also wonder that since 1 in 4 clergy will admit to some sexual indiscretion with someone other than their spouse, if there is a connection?
My perspective is that of a long term, "old guy" clergy and a licensed therapist. I hope, that this is just the beginning of the process of looking at clergy health. A few years ago we decided that most of us were overweight and a physical fitness regimen was encouraged, maybe it is time we looked at mental health the same way, and looked closely at what is negatively impacting a group of men and women who in previous generations would have been some of the healthiest people in the population.
Posted in: 'Guide for a Clergy Leave of Absence for Mental Health Reasons' Toolkit
Mark, Thanks for your kind words. It is my prayer that this is a first step toward some honest dialog on this subject between more than just you and I. You see I am nearing the end of my career and doing my best to maintain my balance. My concern is for those who have many years to come and as you cite Gibson's article, which I need to find by the way, the idealized pastor is part our collective history and is not likely to change to quickly, unless we as active clergy find ways to support and encourage that kind of self-differentiation which is not generally rewarded.
I would also like to offer my help to be part of the solution rather than someone complaining. I have some theories and ideas I am pondering and hoping to put into practice in the near future. Once again thanks for the willingness to at least raise the issue.