Who Cares for Pastors?
October 1, 1994
(Published in Leadership in 1990 and 1992, this list of centers has pointed troubled or tired pastors to havens of counseling and rest. Counselors Wes and Judy Roberts have now revised and updated the list. Though not exhaustive, the list is a helpful starting place. You'll want to inquire about theological orientation, counseling approach, and other issues before deciding which resource best meets the need at hand.) When I met Rich and Michelle (not their real names) they were exhausted from the rigors of pastoring a growing church and raising their family. In fact, Michelle had been depressed for months, and Rich admitted he was depleted. He woke up to his condition when he realized a woman in the congregation was beginning to mean more to him than was right. He was stunned that he was once more fighting the temptations of pornography--just as he had in college and seminary. Then, one of Rich's best friends told him he was leaving ministry because of an affair. His friend's story sounded too much like his own. When Rich poured out his near misstep, he asked if there was a place to rest, be renewed both personally and in his marriage, and be revived in spirit. I recommended Lake Martin Marriage Retreat in Alabama, even though it was some distance. At Lake Martin, Rich and Michelle received thorough and godly counsel. And, wonderfully, the seeds of romance and fun got planted back in their marriage. When they returned home, even their high school son wondered what had happened to them. According to Rich and Michelle, they are experiencing the best growth in their twenty-one years of marriage, through renewed emphases on prayer, forgiveness, and a willingness to work seriously at their relationship. Here's a list of places and ...
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