Ministry and Mental Health: Preaching, Presence, and People
Mental health is certainly not a new topic of interest here at Ministry Forum.
We often advocate for the mental well-being of ministry leaders—encouraging rhythms of rest, retreat, and inter-mission. We've shared resources on burnout, hosted conversations about clergy wellness, and supported events that remind us: you can't pour from an empty cup.
But there’s a deeper layer to this conversation that we want to explore more intentionally:
How does mental health shape your preaching?
Your pastoral care?
Your leadership?
Are you engaging these realities from the pulpit and in your ministry practices?
Whatever your context, you're likely serving people who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, loneliness, or addiction… and many are doing so silently.
At the same time, ministry leaders are still learning how to address these concerns wisely and theologically—how to name what’s real without overstepping our training, and how to create space for healing without stigma. We’ve heard from some of you that even though you're passionate about mental health, you're not always sure how to speak about it on a Sunday morning or respond pastorally when someone discloses a struggle.
So we’re asking: How are you holding these conversations in your context?
Do mental health realities shape your preaching or teaching?
How do you make space for these conversations in your community?
What language, Scripture, or theology do you find helpful—or harmful—in this work?
What are you still longing to learn?
As we prepare for the upcoming Ministry Mental Health Summit at Tyndale (May 20–22), where many of these issues will be explored, we want to begin this conversation here and now—with you.
Rev. John will be attending the Summit on Tuesday, and we’re excited that one of our Ministry Forum community members will also be there—thanks to our ticket giveaway a few weeks ago (another reason you really should be on our email list!) In the weeks following the event, we’ll be sharing their reflections and key takeaways, giving you a window into the conversations, insights, and resources they encountered.
But until then, let’s talk…
We invite you to share your reflections and experiences. Whether you're seasoned in this area or just starting to consider its implications, your voice matters.
What’s been helpful in your ministry when it comes to mental health?
Where have you felt unsure, stretched, or discouraged?
What kinds of tools or training would support you best?
You can reply in the comments, send us a note, or connect with us at the Ministry Mental Health Summit.