CDF Capital

After the sprint from Christmas to Easter to Mother’s Day, the summer months can bring moments of slower rhythms in ministry. So now is a good time to pause and ask an honest question: has the pace of the past six months taken a toll on your family, too?

Even family members who aren't on staff can carry the weight of ministry life. Here are four ways it can happen without you realizing it.

1. The need to be perfect. Your family can pick up the unspoken expectation that they need to appear flawless, your spouse most of all. Have regular, open conversations to help them reject that unnecessary burden.

2. Your constant absence. The expectations placed on clergy can be rough and might keep pastors away from home day and night. If that's become the case, sit down with your loved ones to create a family schedule that's sacred, and prioritize that time.

3. Being forced into ministry positions. You are on the church's payroll, not your family. Be an advocate for them when other staff or church members voice the assumption that your spouse or children can or should take on church responsibilities simply because of their relationship to you.

4. Carrying your ministry burden. Many pastors don't have a lot of close friends to talk to about their frustrations, and those feelings get brought home. Be mindful of how you talk about people in the congregation around your family, especially your children.

It's an honor to be called to vocational ministry. As a pastor, you're shepherding a flock that, on some level, includes your family. Aim to protect their hearts, too.

Read more: https://www.cdfcapital.org/four-ways-your-ministry-might-be-burning-out-your-family/