Presbytery Pastoral Care Network

    One of the major untapped resources in clergy self-care is the Board of Pensions.  since health care costs have skyrocketed in recent years, the Board of Pensions has increasingly entered the field of preventative care as a means of holding down those costs.
     It is not news to most pastors that stress is a major component of their job.  what you may not realize is that because you are a member of the Board of Pensions, you can access their stress management program for free.
     Their Strength & Resilience stress management program helps you understand the sources of your stress, learn coping techniques, and manage stress both on and off the job.  You can select from two convenient options:  a telephone program or an online program, or use both.
     The telephone program features:

	Personal stress management plan
	Individual coaching
	Dedicated wellness coach
	Convenient evening and weekend coaching hours
	Workbook and tool kit
	Healthy Rewards discounts
	Support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (See Clergy Self-Care)

     One could make a case for the fact that skill in pastoral care is one of the key ingredients to successful ministry.  Presbyteries might want to consider advocating for churches to support their pastors in increasing their skill in this area.
     For example, beginning in March 2008, McCormick Seminary offers a D. Min in Pastoral and Spiritual Care.  February 1, 2008 is the deadline for applications.  The core course, Ministry With Groups, March 31-April 4, 2008, is taught by Professor Deborah Kapp at Adventist LaGrange Memorial Hospital, LaGrange, IL.  A second core course in pastoral care, taught by Professor Homer Ashby, will be offered May 12 - 16.  For more information, go to www.mccormick.edu or e-mail Martha Brown, Doctor of Ministry Recruitment & Retention Coordinator.  Telephone 773.947.6361.