Abstract

Clergy work with crisis, crisis requires caring and caring demands a cost. Without a doubt the demands of 21st century ministry have moved far beyond those depicted in the novels of Jane Austen. Today’s clergy are frequently accessed for support by individuals and communities during times of crisis. This has been further highlighted by the Coronavirus pandemic that swept across the world during the completion of this book impacting the lives of millions in ways many of us could never have imagined. Continual exposure to the crisis being experienced by others is well documented as taking its toll amongst several caring professions. However, in this book, Jill Hendron sets out the unique challenges of the pastoral ministry when working with crisis and considers the many impacts it can have. For those clergy providing pastoral care this book will help to ensure they also pay attention to their own emotional wellbeing. It should also become a ‘must read’ for those considering entering the ministry or those who hold responsibility for training and supporting clergy and who need to understand these unique stressors within the pastoral ministry.