The Right Road
Life Choices for Clergy
- Church Leadership & Ministry
- Publisher: Fortress Press (Augsburg Fortress)
- Published: 2004
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Publisher's Description
Many clergy are in startlingly bad health. Not only do they regularly report depression, stress, and serious family and financial problems, they also exhibit higher than normal incidences of obesity, high cholesterol levels, inactivity, high blood pressure, and heart disease. How effective can professionals in ministry be with such debilities and vulnerabilities? Are clergy too busy helping others to take care of themselves? Gwen Halaas's caring and savvy book addresses clergy health directly: clergy have a spiritual as well as physical need to care for themselves, to live to the fullest, to ensure that they enjoy the life and gifts God gave them. Building her brief, practical book around the wellness wheel, Halaas emphasizes not just healthy eating but a whole array of life-affirming choices for clergy. Halaas provides the tools for clergy to choose growth and well-being over burnout and decline. With this practical and upbeat volume, clergy can begin to put their own lives in perspective and ''keep [themselves] in training for a godly life'' (1 Timothy 4:7).
Endorsements (5)
“''Every pastor in America needs a copy of this book—STAT! This resource fills a huge gap on seminary bookshelves. Dr. Halaas, a physician who is expert in wellness protocol, also has great understanding of the unique challenges facing clergy today. Suitable for use by individuals or clergy groups, this book provides a wealth of data and suggestions for improving the personal health of America's ministers, who far too often sacrifice their own health and well-being (and that of their family), to serve the pressing needs of others.''”
“''The special needs for clergy wellness are well-documented, and Dr. Halaas provides a comprehensive road map for initiating healthy change. 'The Right Road' can help clergy find the balance needed to strengthen their ministry and their lives.''”
“''The Right Road is like 'mapquest' for anyone who wants to be a healthy leader enhancing lives. If you are thinking about having a more balanced lifestyle this provides great directions for you. If you are headed in the wrong direction and need to make a U-turn, Dr. Halaas provides a prescription for you. If you are making plans to begin a healthier life, you'll find helpful tips and suggestions. If you are well on your way to a healthier life you'll find inspiration (along with your perspiration) to 'fight the good fight, to run the race.'''”
“''Gwen Wagstrom Halaas' experiences as a family physician and wife of a pastor have given her a keen understanding of the many physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges facing today's clergy. She understands how the demands of ministry make it difficult for clergy to take proper care of themselves. In The Right Road Dr. Halaas offers valuable advice that clergy can use to enhance their own health and to lead their congregations in ministries of health and healing. This is a book that should be read by every pastor and by congregational leaders concerned about the health and well-being of clergy.''”
“''An important resource for every congregation interested in enhancing and supporting their pastor and each other to a healthier road of life.''”
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