By Lis Van Harten

(First appeared in the May 2007 issue of Ministry Reports to Classes and Councils.)

Pastors are a dedicated group of individuals. They take their calling seriously and work diligently as they minister among God’s people. Their schedules are very full and often time it seems as if they aren’t able to fit one more commitment in. But to date, over 50% of CRC pastors have found the time to join a Sustaining Pastoral Excellence peer learning group. Pastors across Canada and the US are getting together, on a regular basis, to learn in community, to encourage, to support and to pray for one another. A wide variety of topics are studied. During the meetings there are times of laughter, enrichment, fellowship, and camaraderie. There are also times of deep struggle and of sharing the more difficult aspects of their work.

We hear many reports of the positive impact that the peer groups have had on the pastors involved. “It [the peer group experience] has impacted all of us very positively and it has made a positive impact on our congregations as well.”  “One member [of our group] was about to resign his position. He was so exhausted and burned out from his ministry. But through our meetings he was comforted and encouraged and he regained his passion.”

As dedicated as pastors are it appears that for some involvement in a peer group is resulting in a rededication to their work for God and his church. As we look to the future of the CRCNA, it’s important that we continue to pray for our pastors and their families as they dedicate their lives to ministry.