Pastors and church leaders often face the challenge of balancing the spiritual needs of their congregations with their own emotional and physical well-being. Dr. Andy Yarborough, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of The Well Clinic, recently spoke with Dino Rizzo, President of the Association of Related Churches (ARC), to discuss the vital role holistic self-care plays in helping pastors thrive in ministry.
The Value of Holistic Self-Care
In speaking with Dino Rizzo of the Association of Related Churches, Dr. Yarborough emphasizes the importance of “holistic self-care.” He defines this type of self-care as an act of self-leadership. Pastors must care for their own spiritual, mental, and physical health so they can effectively lead others. This approach ensures that pastors can serve their congregations from a place of strength and emotional well-being.
Dr. Yarborough stresses that pastors must take responsibility for their own health to lead others effectively. This aligns with ARC’s mission to support church planters and pastors by providing them with the resources needed to succeed in their ministries.
ARC’s Role in Supporting Pastors
The Association of Related Churches remains committed to equipping church leaders with resources, support, and training. The organization’s proactive approach to well-being helps pastors address personal challenges before they impact their ministry.
Through ARC’s church-planting process, early intervention is provided to address issues like burnout, stress, or trauma. This proactive approach ensures that pastors are prepared both to lead and maintain their health over the long term. As Dino Rizzo explains, “We want to make sure that when church planters launch, they have the support, overseers, and resources needed for long-term success in ministry.”
Developing Emotional Resilience
The Association of Related Churches recognizes that emotional resilience is crucial for pastors as they face the ups and downs of ministry. Dr. Yarborough encourages pastors to acknowledge their struggles rather than ignore them, as unaddressed issues can lead to burnout.
He defines compassion as the ability to “suffer with others” and believes it is essential for effective ministry. “We must be willing to face our own pain if we are to truly walk with others in theirs,” he says. This deep level of empathy allows pastors to connect with their congregations without sacrificing their emotional health.
Restoring Pastors to Wholeness
When pastors face personal struggles, the Association of Related Churches and Dr. Yarborough focus on restoring them to wholeness. The goal is not just to restore them to ministry but to restore their personal health and their relationship with God. Whether dealing with stress, addiction, or trauma, ARC offers resources to help pastors heal and regain their sense of purpose.
Yarborough emphasizes that this process must also involve a pastor’s spouse and family. “A healthy family is crucial for long-term success in ministry,” he notes, adding that family dynamics should be addressed alongside personal healing.
Dr. Andy Yarborough and Dino Rizzo of the Association of Related Churches highlight the need for holistic self-care and emotional resilience in ministry. By addressing mental, emotional, and spiritual health early on, the ARC helps pastors thrive in their calling, enabling them to lead their churches with strength and empathy.
About the Association of Related Churches (ARC):
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) represents a collaborative network comprising independent congregations from various denominations, networks, and backgrounds. Its primary mission is to provide essential support and resources to church planters and pastors, enabling them to effectively share the teachings of Jesus Christ. The ARC’s operational approach revolves around empowering and equipping church leaders, thus helping them foster the widespread dissemination of Christ’s life-changing message. Established in 2000, the Association of Related Churches has evolved into a worldwide entity and has played a pivotal role in facilitating the establishment of over 1,000 new churches globally.
