Understanding the Work of Local Church Pastors Over the past years we have conducted additional research into the workload and work demand of local church pastors. We find that six characteristics of pastoral work may create potential challenges for the wellbeing of clergy. Ministry is high-stakes...

The metaphor of a theater is very useful for understanding many aspects of flourishing in ministry and it is especially helpful for describing the role of social support in wellbeing. The front stage is where the performance happens. The backstage is the place to support and nurture great front...

Pastors who were once vibrant and vital in their ministry find themselves exhausted, and challenged to muster the motivation and energy for ministry work.  These pastors find themselves suddenly and inexplicably sapped of energy and strength. They “hit the wall” as one pastor we interviewed put...

The science of wellbeing is young. It has been around for about three decades, only a short time in science-years. But the goal of this research is profound: to understand the best, most positive dimension of life. Scientists have learned a lot about how to help people who are suffering, which is...