Compassion fatigue? Burnout? Here’s a quick and free test!

Wonder if you are suffering from ministry fatigue or burnout? Here’s a link to a free self-scoring quality of life test. The test is generic and uses the terms “those I help” to refer to the people you serve and “helper” to refer to you. After you give your answers it directs you to score the test yourself. If you score high, you might want to discuss the results with someone who you trust to be concerned for you.

For more information about the concepts check out the website. Scroll to the bottom for an image that depicts the relationship between burnout and quality of life. This tool was designed for military and other professionals dealing with traumatic events. However, you can see how pastors and other ministry leaders are faced with traumas as well.

Consider a gift for your pastor: A retreat!

Want to bless your pastor family this year? Consider giving the gift of a renewal retreat. If you can’t afford to cover the whole costs (see below), consider going in on the gift together with some of your friends.Here’s what I’m talking about. A group of like-minded individuals meet on a regular basis to consider how to promote pastor renewal. Last year, we developed and ran a pastoral renewal retreat for pastors and spouses. It was successful and so we are planning a second retreat for April 26-28, 2011 (the week after Easter). The retreat runs 3 days and 2 nights in the Poconos at the Haft. During the retreat couples will meet together, alone with a ministry mentor, and have time alone as they consider how to grow spiritually in the face of ministry challenges. We will cover issues such as discouragers, marriage enrichment, and renewal practices.The cost to the ministry couple is $250. for room, board, and retreat. We’ll be posting registration materials but if you know think this is something you want to do or you know some couples who are interested, email me [pmonroeATbiblicalDOTedu] to get on a first ask list. There are only 7 couple slots available.

via Consider a gift for your pastor: A retreat!.