The weight of the yoke: a qualitative analysis of the stressors for clergy across a mental health continuum.

Healthy clergy serve as the cornerstone of thriving congregations and, by extension, healthier communities. However, the multifaced working responsibilities combined with a deep sense of responsibility to one's sacred call can produce a cascade of sources of stress that are not always taken into con...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Mental Health, Religion & Culture Vol. 28; no. 2; pp. 111 - 128
Autores principales: Tice, Logan, Salgado, Glaucia, Johnston, Erin, Nascimento, Barbara, Lee Bo-Hyeong, Jane, Proeschold-Bell, Rae Jean, Eagle, David
Formato: Artículo
Publicado: Taylor & Francis Ltd Feb2025
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Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:Healthy clergy serve as the cornerstone of thriving congregations and, by extension, healthier communities. However, the multifaced working responsibilities combined with a deep sense of responsibility to one's sacred call can produce a cascade of sources of stress that are not always taken into consideration when assessing ways to support clergy. Using data from the Clergy Health Initiative Longitudinal Survey (CHILS) and in-depth interviews from the Reflections in Ministry project, we categorise clergy into four groups – Flourishing, Burdened but Fulfilled, Languishing, and Distressed. We further explore each mental health profile group, examining the sources of stress experienced by United Methodist clergy. This analysis offers a nuanced understanding of clergy mental health experiences. Findings assist with demystifying approaches to promote clergy well-being, ultimately supporting their mental health and their vital roles in community leadership.