The Strain of Leadership

Rev. Joshua Patty
Regional Minister and President

A few weeks ago, I became aware of this report that details significant stress experienced by business leaders during the pandemic. Two highlighted statistics were sobering. 82% of surveyed leaders have "reported exhaustion indicative of burnout risk" and 51% "had been contemplating exiting their roles."

While this report reflects surveys of business leaders, I am confident that it has important information for leaders in the church. In particular, it suggests that the strains on leaders during the pandemic pose a risk to losing many of these leaders in the future. Many recent conversations with church leaders provide anecdotal support for these findings -- increased stress, increased workload, evidence of burnout, and more.

Going forward, I think we have two important ways to act in light of the strain of leadership. Obviously, I worry about the ongoing and future ministry of our vocational ministers. In the best of circumstances, ministry is often stressful and isolating -- the pandemic has exacerbated these things.

We need to spend time intentionally as clergy colleagues supporting each other -- having one-on-one conversations, sharing in small groups, learning together, praying for each other. We should not shoulder all of the stress and anxiety of our ministry by ourselves. Sometimes, we need to be bold enough to reach out and seek advice and help. (I am grateful to Pension Fund for providing a valuable and easily accessible mental health resource, Learn to Live, to all active clergy and family members over age 12.)

Truthfully, I'm even more concerned for our congregational leaders. I've read many articles and essays sharing the challenges for people professionally, but I haven't noticed much consideration for volunteers. Many have faced the same increased expectations and stress during the pandemic, with less obvious support networks.

Our congregational leaders need opportunities to share with other who have similar responsibilities. Perhaps nearby congregations can invite groups of congregational leaders to meet. And our regional church will invite such leaders to meet together too.

What ways can we develop and strengthen support networks for ministers and for congregational leaders? Please share suggestions: josh@uppermidwestcc.org.