Many pastoral leaders have no place where they can be themselves without worry. A place where they don’t have to be everything to everyone, free from concerns of their position, a place where relationships are close, authentic and centered in Christ.
Without a place to share the pressure in ministry or unrealistic expectations from others (or even ourselves) can lead to stress, overwork, insecurity, burnout, leaving ministry and more.
Pastoral leaders find a place of encouragement and inspiration from peers who know what it’s like to be a pastoral leader today. A place where they can be themselves without judgment or condemnation.
Pastoral leaders report a drop in feeling isolated and alone, reduced levels of stress, greater ability to stop recurring sin, better marriages and better relationships with their kids.
In their churches, they are better able to make decisions, improve the health of ministry teams, disciple others and connect with other ministries and denominations. All that impacts their communities and outreaches.
Groups are composed of 3 to 5 people who are active in pastoral ministry (full time or not).
Such as: lead/senior pastors, associate pastors, youth pastors, children’s pastors, worship/music pastors, chaplains, non-profit organization positions, church planters or missionaries that are actively creating Christian communities, Catholic or Anglican Deacons, etc.
Groups normally meet twice a month for 1.5 hrs engaging in Storytelling, Scripture, Prayer and Updating.
1. Groups begin with storytelling so pastors can get to know each other. It is the foundation for authentic relationships;
2. Engaging in Scripture - Listening to Scripture then sharing what we have heard from the Holy Spirit - this element anchors group members in Christ;
3. Prayer - Talking with God and listening to the leading of the Holy Spirit, both individually and corporately;
4. Updating - Other pastors sharing about their current life, family, ministry, etc. being genuine and with vulnerability.
When pastors first find out about Peer to Peer groups, they sometimes wonder if they really have time for another commitment in a busy schedule.
But after joining and participating in a group, many pastors wonder how they could even do ministry without the authentic relationships, encouragement, and inspiration they receive from their fellow group members.