By Fr. Peter Preble Recently, I was asked what my philosophy of pastoral leadership in the Church is today. To sum it up in a few words: Leaders need to be Servants first. I had the honor and privilege or serving my county for 12 years in the United States Army. During that time I served under … [Read more...]
The Challenges of the Priesthood in Today’s Russia
Though this article refers to the challenges of the priesthood in Russia, it applies equally in America. The following interview with His Eminence, Archbishop Mark of Yegoryevsk, offers a frank and revealing look at the challenges and temptations faced by clergy in contemporary Russia. While of … [Read more...]
Refresher for the Orthodox Pastor
By Metropolitan Philaret (Voznesensky) Originally entitled "Refresher for a Russian Orthodox Pastor" 1. Having accepted the grace of ordination, bear in mind of what a gift and of what mercy the Lord has found you worthy – and what responsibility you now bear. A priest is an apostle to his … [Read more...]
When You Don’t Know What To Do
by Dcn. Michael Hyatt Early in my career, I was the marketing director for a book publishing company. Because of my workload and the on-going pressure to produce results, I felt overwhelmed. I was certain that it was only a matter of time before my boss discovered that I was in over my head. This … [Read more...]
Clergy Burnout: A Continuing Problem
Taking a Break From the Lord’s Work By Paul Vitello The findings have surfaced with ominous regularity over the last few years, and with little notice: Members of the clergy now suffer from obesity, hypertension and depression at rates higher than most Americans. In the last decade, their use of … [Read more...]
A Bullseye On Their Back
Another gem from the Ministry Best Practices webblog. It's not easy being a pastor. Here are some stats why: 50% of pastors’ marriages will end in divorce 80% of seminary graduates will leave ministry in the first 5 years 70% of pastors are grossly underpaid (compared to the amount of work … [Read more...]
The Staff Of Aaron: The Ministry Of Preaching
by Fr. Patrick Henry Reardon Senior Editor of Touchstone Magazine, and archpriest of All Saints Orthodox Church in Chicago, IL, Fr. Patrick is, perhaps, the most erudite writer in the Orthodox Church in North America today. This article, one of his Pastoral Ponderings, was recently published by … [Read more...]
