Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

Darcy Hansen

Second Advisor

Jay Anderson

Third Advisor

MaryKate Morse

Abstract

At the Redwood Mountain Grove in Kings Canyon National Park, the strength and resilience of sequoias provide a compelling example of the significance of communal interconnectedness. Despite their towering stature, these trees possess relatively shallow root systems that intertwine with neighboring trees to fortify their stability. This mutually beneficial relationship enables these giants to withstand formidable natural forces. Similarly, this paradigm offers pastors an invaluable lesson in fostering interconnections within their community as a strategy for a deeper connection. The grove’s interconnected root systems are a metaphor for the church’s vision of connectedness. It is an informative framework for pastors to cultivate a stable, interconnective relationship of care and unity in their congregations. Pastors have many reasons for contemplating resigning from the ministry, including isolation and loneliness. Recent surveys confirm that 56 percent have indicated leaving full-time ministry because of the stress of the job, while 43 percent say, “I feel lonely and isolated.”3

It is important for churches to develop an interconnection with their

pastors to provide holistic care. This dissertation explores the problem of pastors in Mennonite Brethren churches feeling isolated and burned out because the denomination lacks personal and communal care frameworks. Section 1 addresses the problem pastors and churches experience in caring for their pastors across denominational lines. Section 2 gives comparable solutions for addressing MB’s essential needs.

Section 3 proposes a solution: guidelines for holistic care through a Pastoral Care Team (PCT), which will provide a foundation for pastoral caregiving culture. Sections 4 and 5 outline the development of the proposed website, which will provide a framework for holistic care through a PCT. Section 6 includes reflections on writing, developing, and executing this project.

Download

Included in

Christianity Commons

Share

COinS