It’s a question Catalina and I receive relatively frequently, and the answer is multi-faceted. Ministry leaders who have benefited from Standing Stone’s shepherding care often refer their colleagues. Others find us through family members or friends who support the ministry. And then there are those who search for help and wind up at the Standing Stone national website. A ministry leader who clicks “Connect with a Shepherd” on the Standing Stone national website can fill out a simple form to start their journey toward greater wholeness.
Ministry leaders aren’t required to give us their last names, but they are invited to share any details that would be helpful in pairing them with a shepherd. Standing Stone regularly receives submission forms that demonstrate the highs and lows of life in ministry. Here are just a few from last month.
NOTE: some details altered to preserve confidentiality.
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I grew up as a pastor’s kid, so I’ve been around ministry my whole life. I’ started serving in the church my dad pastored as the youth director but have also worked on the missions team. A few months ago, Dad was hit by a drunk driver and died instantly. I’ve been trying to navigate grief and ministry, but could use some extra support and care right now. I’ve been praying for some answers, then found your ministry online and knew I should reach out.
I’m an elder at a church looking for coaching/support for our current Senior Pastor and his wife. They are raising six kids–two teens and four little ones–while pastoring this church and small community. The pace they’re on just isn’t sustainable. We want to give them access to support while they continue to serve and wonder if your ministry might be a good fit. They are both aware we are in search of support for them. Thanks for any help you can give.
I am a traveling worship artist often on tour. I’m also the dad of two kiddos and a husband to my wife of twelve years. Things that happened to me in childhood have recently resurfaced and caused confusion and hurt in my marriage and family life. I really need some help working through past trauma.
We have come out of a season of burnout and would love help to create new boundaries and family rhythms to prevent burning out again.
I’m a full-time youth pastor and would love to have someone I can confide in.
I’m seeking support during a time of transition and would like to work on leadership issues.
I’m an associate pastor and my head pastor is burned out/midlife crisis. I need help.
I just found out that my husband has been unfaithful and secretly accumulated massive debts. He was fired and now we have no source of income. I know I need help, but I have no idea how I could pay for a therapist. I’m wondering if you provide free help for pastor’s wives or former pastor’s wives.
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As you can see, we deal with ministry leaders in a wide range of circumstances. We help some ministry leaders avoid crises and help others navigate through them. Both our preventative and our triage work is essential for the health and strength of Kingdom leaders. We are so grateful that, because God has called us to be shepherds with Standing Stone, we can be available to connect with those needing care with someone who understands and can walk with them. Thank you for being on the journey with us.
If you or someone you know is struggling under the weight of ministry, we want you to know—you are not alone. We are here to walk with you, because healthy leaders build healthy churches, and the Kingdom depends on both.
Are You a Ministry Leader in Need of Care?
We are able to provide pastoral care to ministry leaders and their spouses at no cost through the generous support of our Financial Support Team. We would be honored if you helped us continue our ministry through your financial support. Click the link to join our Financial Support Team.
