Good morning,
Last week, I attended the Society for Pastoral Theology study conference in New Brunswick, New Jersey. It was the first time I’ve had away by myself with (almost) no responsibilities, no care for another soul but my own, and time to think. Space to reflect.
The sessions and presentations were stimulating. The conversations with friends were restorative. New connections were energizing. Time alone in my room, on the plane, in the car: priceless.
Self-reflection is undeniably key to good pastoral practice. We can’t lead other people or care well for them if we are not tending to our own souls, including reflection about what the Spirit is doing in our lives.
How can I become a more self-reflective minister?
I asked this question in one of the first episodes of Three Minute Ministry Mentor. You can watch the video and read that early blog. Or you can listen to the podcast. Remember in Season One, each episode is just three minutes. A great way to start your day! The aim of these short videos and podcasts is to inform and inspire your practice of ministry. The stories and insights come from more than a decade of research following ministers like you to see how they learn in practice.
I hope today you will take a few minutes to journal about your thoughts and experiences. Do some self-reflection to start your week. Here are more questions:
