A qualitative study examining how pastors cultivate emotional health in their elders

Ham, William M.

1 online resource (x, 189 leaves)

Includes abstract

D. Min. Covenant Theological Seminary, 2025

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 183-189)

Titre

A qualitative study examining how pastors cultivate emotional health in their elders

Dernière modification

10/02/2025

Créateur

Ham, William M.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine how pastors cultivate emotional health in their elders. While emotional health is increasingly recognized as essential for effective leadership, many churches and seminaries do not adequately address this crucial aspect of spiritual formation, particularly for those in ordained leadership positions. This often leads to challenges for pastors and elders and can negatively impact the overall health of the church. This study utilized a qualitative design using semi-structured interviews with eight pastors in the Reformed tradition (primarily Presbyterian Church in America and Evangelical Presbyterian Church). The interviews focused on gathering data related to three research questions: How do pastors cultivate emotional health in their personal lives? What practices help pastors cultivate emotional health in elders? What challenges do pastors face in cultivating emotional health in their elders? The literature review focused on three key areas: biblical and theological perspectives on emotional health, the field of emotional intelligence and its application to leadership, and leadership development within the church context. This study found that personal suffering often serves as a catalyst for pastors’ own emotional health journeys. It also identified key practices for sustaining emotional wellbeing, including intentional relationships, counseling, and spiritual disciplines. Furthermore, the research revealed significant challenges in cultivating emotional health in elders, including cultural stigma, ministry demands, and theological misconceptions. Key practices include creating safe environments, empowering leaders to have vulnerability, and pursuing spiritual disciplines. To address these challenges, this study identifies specific, actionable strategies for pastors and churches to integrate emotional health into leadership selection, training, development, and evaluation. Prioritizing emotional health is not merely a matter of improving individual well-being, but is essential for creating thriving church.

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