Kerith Retreats

How do we continue our work with endurance, health and well-being so that we do not leave exhausted and create needless turnover in our vocational roles? The key may be in the way we work, the way we pray and the way we rest. Read more on enduring in ministry without facing exhaustion: https://bit.ly/3vwIMOC

Pastors, we're certain that you're hearing many of the same stories we're hearing: the pandemic has been very hard on stressed marriages. We thought that you might find it helpful to hear from one of the senior marriage therapists from our Hope Restored program, Wayne Reed, who was a pastor for many years before becoming a counsellor. Read Wayne's insights for working with struggling couples: https://bit.ly/3p6cCoE

Pastoral ministry in any context is challenging work. So it's natural to periodically wonder how long one can continue in it even in normal times. What the world has been experiencing this last year has made things much harder, and thus, many are wrestling with leaving the ministry. Here's one pastor's appeal to his coworkers in Christ: Do not give up. Read the full article by Darrell W. Johnson: https://bit.ly/2LDzNJD

Set aside the lists for a while, quiet your mind and try this solution to an apathetic holiday heart. Read that old familiar Christmas story again not for the church, or the study group, or your kids but for you. Just you. Merrie Eizenga, one of our program directors, shares how the wonder of it all may capture your heart anew: https://bit.ly/2JJc1uP

Are you feeling overwhelmed as a ministry leader? We recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult on all of us but our brothers and sisters in ministry have been feeling additional pressure. There has been a steep learning curve of trying to connect and fellowship with people while also considering new physical distancing protocols to keep our most vulnerable safe and healthy. If you're struggling during this time and you wish you could talk with someone outside of your church, we invite you to call our free confidential counselling line dedicated to pastors and their families. Find out more: www.clergycare.ca/counselling

What are guests saying about their time of rest and refreshment at Kerith Retreats? Here's a look back at 2020 through the eyes of the ministry leaders we hosted: https://bit.ly/2UXqd5f Our teams love serving pastors and ministry leaders and as you can see from the comments in the link above, they do an exceptional job of doing so. Do make time to come and let them bless you single or married, if you are a ministry leader, we’d love to have you join us!

Our dear church leaders, you are loved, you are appreciated, and you are remembered in prayer. This Clergy Appreciation season, we'd like to bless you with the reminder of the gift that was given to you by the very one who called you to serve. It is the gift of permission. Read more about the blessing of permission: https://bit.ly/35roREF

"If someone is getting in the way of you becoming the person God created you to be or is frustrating the work God has called you to do, for you that person is toxic." Gary Thomas' book, When to Walk Away, offers biblical, practical advice to address an issue that all of us at one time or another will face toxic people. Read the full review: https://bit.ly/2Rwsv9B

Here’s the truth that most of us as pastors know deep in our souls: we cannot do this alone! We need friends who know us intimately and love us deeply. How do we cultivate these meaningful friendships as ministry leaders? Read: https://bit.ly/3365QXk

At Kerith Retreats, we hear a lot about the anxieties that besiege pastors and ministry workers. Sometimes it’s circumstantial in nature, induced by difficult situations miring a congregation in dissension, power posturing, or financial strains and crises. Other times anxiety stems from within. If you're struggling with anxiety, here are a few key truths to keep in mind.

Ministry has been a challenge in the last number of months. And now, as restrictions begin to lift, leaders are needing to rethink how we gather. Sam Doerksen, one of our program directors, shares his encouragement for this unusual season, and reminds us what ultimately draws us togetherthe Gospel! You can also visit FocusOnTheFamily.ca/COVID-19 to find resources to help families in your church during this time of social distancing.

When a significant conflict arises that involves the pastor directly, their spouse often struggles with knowing how to navigate the second-degree conflict. How can they discern when it's necessary and appropriate for them to speak up, defend, support, walk away, agree or disagree with, or move on? Read for thoughts from those who've lived through the harsh reality of second-degree conflict.

"Perhaps for you, this is been a perplexing season, where waiting has raised far more questions than providing answers. Dear friend, allow the Lord to speak comfort into your storm-tossed heart. Hear the Lord’s words afresh, spoken to you personally: 'After a little while you will see me.' Read more on clinging to Christ's faithful promise in this article by Steve Witmer, one of our retreat leaders.

If the subject of homosexuality, same-sex attraction and gender dysphoria has not yet impacted your churches and ministry settings, it soon will. Here are some answers and resources to help you, as ministry leaders, navigate these matters from a theological and pastoral perspective.