Peter Madsen Gubi with Jan Korris and William West, Reflective Practice Groups for Clergy: Offering Pastoral Supervision, Well-Being Support and Spiritual Formation in Community
This book brings together research into, and experience of, the practicalities, benefits, limitations, and ways of thinking theologically and pedagogically about Reflective Practice Groups for Clergy, and advocates Reflective Practice Groups for Clergy as providing opportunity for enhancing well-being, theological development, Pastoral Supervision and spiritual formation in community.
Recommendations:
As churches across denominations take stock of historical and current cases of the misuse and abuse of power by Clergy, as well as concerns about Clergy stress and burnout in the face of increasing demands, the experience of personal and professional isolation which many ministers report is needing to be taken more seriously. This book, describing the purpose and practicalities of Reflective Practice Groups for ministers, and supported by research findings, is a timely and comprehensive contribution to the discussion about how Clergy can be better supported and more reflective about their ministerial practice. My hope is that it will inspire both those at the coal face of ministry and those who have a duty of care for them to make regular reflection on practice as normal for ministers as it currently is for therapists, social workers and probation officers.
Dr Ruth Layzell, DProf, Director of the Institute of Pastoral Counselling and Supervision
The authors of this text offer rigorous research, sound theology and years of experience regarding reflective practice with Clergy. It is authentically presented by leaders in this field, who have a deep insight and understanding of group dynamics and an appreciation for the use of reflective space. Its accessible style is consistently supported by first-hand participant narrative and honest expression. It emphasises plainly the vocational, theological, spiritual, emotional and psychological interplay, both for the individuals in ministry, and within the collective phronesis (wisdom) of the Reflective Practice Group.
Revd Bill Mullally, MA, Director of Pastoral Supervision at Wesley House, Cambridge; Methodist Presbyter; Trustee of the Association for Pastoral Supervision and Education; and former President of the Methodist Church in Ireland
Useful to anyone concerned with clergy well-being and the safe practice of ministry, this book draws on historical examples and empirical research to demonstrate the value of professionally facilitated reflective practice groups. It offers practical guidance for those wanting to help clergy manage complex and isolating dynamics, learn from each other, and re-orient themselves spiritually and theologically in their vocation and work. It is a welcome complement to other forms of clergy support and accountability at a time of great change and stress in the life of the church.
Revd Dr Jane Leach, PhD, Principal of Wesley House, Cambridge; Methodist Presbyter; and co-founder of the Association for Pastoral Supervision and Education
Offering a compassionately theological approach to clergy mental and spiritual health, Reflective Practice Groups for Clergy shines a new light on a well-established practice. The authors clearly demonstrate the power of creating a safe space where participants can be vulnerable and open with one another, finding healing, growth, and new perspectives on life and ministry.
Revd Jared Stephens, MDiv, Care4Clergy group member; and Minister of Cliftonville and Ballinderry Moravian Churches, Northern Ireland
Ordering information
Peter Madsen Gubi with Jan Korris and William West, Reflective Practice Groups for Clergy: Offering Pastoral Supervision, Well-Being Support and Spiritual Formation in Community, 2020, ISBN 978-1-910481-05-9, £13.99.
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