Letter from the PMC regarding resources to support pastor and worker wellness

May 8, 2020

To: LCC Circuit Counsellors

From: President’s Ministry Council (PMC)

Re: Resources to Support Pastor and Worker Wellness

Dear Co-Workers in Christ,

Pastors are well acquainted with the spiritual care resources available to provide for the well-being, comfort and strength of themselves and those under their care. Daily, faithful pastors care, feed, and protect the sheep under their care, discharging the duties of their Holy Office.

The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic – the social isolation; the impact of the restrictions, particularly upon the vocation of the pastor and congregational workers; and the uncertainty of these times – can, however, weigh heavily upon a pastor/worker. As pastors/workers and their family experience increasing wellness challenges, some may be looking for strategies that may help them and their family members.

Circuit Counsellors are on the front lines and may receive inquires about wellness resources. As such, Circuit Counsellors are encouraged to become acquainted with the supports that are available to pastor/workers and their families through the Worker Benefit Plan (WBP). 

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

All pastors/workers and congregations will receive a letter from Ellement outlining the supports which are available through the Worker Benefit Plan. Please put a copy of that document into your Circuit Counsellor Manual for future reference. Also, make note of the contact information for WBP wellness support and put it in a location which can be easily accessed.

Doxology, a Recognized Service Organization of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS), has put together resources  intended to support pastors (mentally, emotionally and spiritually) at www.doxology.us. Click on the COVID-19 banner.

Please pay particular attention to the document, The Challenge of Clergy Isolation During COVID-19 Days. The document is a useful resource to share with pastors in your circuit or with individual pastors.

Pastors/workers and their family members may require further support beyond that offered through the Worker Benefit Plan. Please inform the pastor/worker that additional support can be accessed through their Regional Pastor. To access this additional support a pastor/worker will need to request their clinical counsellor send a letter of recommendation to the Regional Pastor.

Your Regional Pastor is available at any time to provide assistance to you or to the pastor/worker.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

In Christ,

President’s Ministry Council (PMC)

A printable version of this letter can be downloaded Here.

———————

Rev. Robert Mohns, LCC West Regional Pastor

Rev. David Haberstock, LCC Central Regional Pastor

Rev. Marvin Bublitz, LCC East Regional Pastor

Rev. Timothy Teuscher, President, LCC 

Rev. Thomas Kruesel, Vice-President, LCC

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