Hurting Churches & Hurting Pastors

Hurting churches. Hurting pastors. There a lot of both out there. That reality is a result of hurting people and a hurting world. We should not be surprised about the amount of hurt and brokenness that exists, but it seems like we are still uncomfortable or even uncertain about how a church community and church leaders are to deal with hurt.

As president of Calvin Theological Seminary, I am privileged to be in a position of being a “pastor” to pastors. I am also privileged to visit many churches in a multitude of contexts in various parts of the world.

I have seen tears, frustration, concern, anxiety and even anger expressed. I have also seen wonderful examples of how God has used hurt to bring about empathy and concern as part of healing and hope.

God does not waste a hurt, but that does not mean He does not call us into a deeper walk with Him and with others.

My prayer is for congregations and church leaders to be even more aware of the hurts that pastors and their families can carry.

My prayer is also for church pastors and church leaders to use Scripture, confessions and the wisdom of others to unveil the hurt that exists, so that they may move forward in ways that are redeeming and reflective of the Holy Spirit – our Comforter, Guide and Counselor.

May the articles around the topic of “hurt” be a prism for us to grow as a community of faith!