Features
“The notion that clergy need to look after themselves alone is at risk of becoming the dominant narrative if we don’t pause and reflect on the systemic nature of a problem that is the responsibility of all in our Church,” says priest and medical doctor Imelda O’Loughlin, as she reflects on a Church of England research report
Reflections
“During my month-long trip, people in the Kenyan refugee camp thought that as I was returning from the Western world that I had everything to solve their problems, but I could not overcome the massive difficulties my people now had. As a result, I felt a huge burden of guilt! I recognised that I needed some help,” says Bishop Daniel Abot
“The Anglican Church Southern Queensland offers clergy, staff, chaplains and pastoral carers, and formation students, along with eligible members of their households, free access to Flourish, a wellbeing programme provided by external consultant, LifeWorks,” says Executive Director of PMC Dr Stephen Harrison
WCC News met online with Dr Agnes Abuom, moderator of the World Council of Churches central committee, and she offers reflections on the impact of COVID-19, what gives her hope, and the future of the ecumenical movement
“It has been absolutely clear in the COVID-19 environment that self-care is vital for all those in ministry, as for all in the caring professions. This learning is an important one for clergy and lay ministers to take into the Advent season,” says The Rev’d Dr Daniel Rouhead from Resource Church St Bart’s, Toowoomba
“It is my practice now to see a psychologist six times each year, in between visits to my Spiritual Director. I also look out for the signs that I’m not coping – withdrawing or striving to be creative out of an empty bucket – and attend to them before they become a problem,” says The Rev’d Canon Sarah Plowman
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