Calling, caring, and connecting: burnout in Christian ministry

Abstract

This article explores burnout, and constructs related to burnout, in relation to pastors. Burnout has been found to exist in a multitude of occupations that are service-, or people, oriented. As a large portion of the role of a pastor involves contact with individuals, pastors may experience burnout. It is through a pastoral lens that burnout, and concepts related to burnout such as emotional labour, role salience, differentiation of self, and differentiation of self in Christ, are examined. Methods to cope with burnout such mindfulness and prayer are also reviewed.