Clergy Care exists to serve the needs of active and retired ministers and their family members through:
- Affirming them in their call
- Encouraging them in their ministry
- Appreciating them for their commitment to serve the Lord and the Missionary Church
- Supporting them during times of personal, family and/or ministerial crisis
- Helping restore them if they cross scriptural, moral or ethical boundaries
Ministers and their families are under a great deal of stress. Often pastors feel isolated and yet extremely vulnerable as they function in the "fish bowl." The stigma frequently associated with requesting pastoral care may be a barrier to those most in need of assistance. Concerns about confidentiality and "political" repercussions may deter one from seeking help. We recognize the importance of confidentiality. We know that being able to share your problems without fear is vital to the healing process. That's why we are here.
"Caring for Clergy" is a guide for local church leadership that gives information on ways to care for and minister to pastoral staff. Copies of this publication may be obtained from clergycare@mcusa.org.
Prayer Support
We are committed to praying for our ministers and their families. The week of a minister's birth, on the National Day of Prayer and in October as a part of Clergy Appreciation, the denominational office staff prays for every minister in the Missionary Church. Prayer requests may be submitted via Email at clergycare@mcusa.org or by calling 260-747-2027. We are here to pray with and for you.
Clergy Appreciation
Annually in October we encourage each congregation to plan for a "special" time to express appreciation to their ministry staff. Ideas and planning materials are available from Focus on the Family.
Other Resources
Focus on the Family has produced the Pastoral Care Directory which serves as "a resource-a road map of sorts" to help locate services and materials, i.e. books, tapes, retreat centers. This is a good place to start your search.
Other resources may be found at Great Commandment Network. The Great Commandment Network (including Intimate Life Ministries) is an international network of churches and ministries committed to equipping individuals, couples and families in a lifestyle of Great Commandment love, leading to a passion for Great Commission living.