Facing Our Limitations
by Charles Chandler, Executive Director
A friend recently asked me some questions about the Ministering to Ministers Foundation, Inc. He first wanted to know the organization's purpose. I quickly quoted the mission statement to him: we "seek to be advocates for clergy and their families in all faith groups who are experiencing personal or professional crisis due to deteriorating employment or congregation-clergy relationships."
His next question was, "What are your greatest limitations in carrying out this ministry?" Two words popped into my mind: denial and resources.
Denial runs rampant in our society. It pertains to something unpleasant and may be associated with failure. Churches are often in denial about conflict in their congregations. They appear to assume that if they deny its existence, it will go away.
Church leaders are prone to deny their part in church conflicts and convince themselves that with a change in ministerial leadership, all problems will vanish. Those offering an inadequate severance package deny the fact that churches treating the minister fairly, lose less membership and income.
Some ministers have strong denial mechanisms, too! Though it enables them to tackle problems that otherwise might overwhelm them; it can also cause them to deny their need for help in working through a painful experience.
Grief is a recovery process. It is best traveled with others. That's why various types of recovery support groups are so popular. To recognize and deal with the disillusionment and anger can strengthen what God would like to do through His anointed servants.
Remember, God often works through others, especially skilled professionals. MTM has a solid team of these people. (See Pat Turner's article in this issue.)
It's heartwarming to see a minister and spouse who are suffering from forced termination come to one of our Healthy Transitions Wellness Retreats. They put fear behind them and walk away to a healthier future.
Limited financial resources usually accompany a new organization. MTM can minister to as many hurting ministers and their families as financial resources will permit. The retreats need to expand in number and in geographical areas.
Though the income continues to grow, so do the needs. Every dollar invested in MTM is an investment in the lives and ministries of God's chosen but wounded messengers. Healthy pastors can help develop healthy churches. This produces a trickle down effect in an entire community.
To accomplish our goals in 1999, receipts need to increase approximately $80,000.00 over last year, in addition to the regular in-kind gifts. Through your contribution, you can partner with MTM in making a difference.
Churches, denominations, businesses and charitable trusts can partner with us, too! I'm convinced churches investing in MTM will be less likely to become engrossed in conflict that results in forced termination.
Pray that God will provide the wisdom and resources to effectively carry out our MTM mission and ministry!