Pastoral Sustainability

Many pastors can easily spot the needs that others have, but they lack self-awareness. A recent survey of Mennonite Brethren church leaders revealed three primary reasons why pastors leave their positions: burnout, unrealistic expectations, and conflict. 

In response, MinistryLift and the BC Conference of MB Churches is hosting a half-day event with Dr. Keith Mitchell to help pastors identify the pitfalls they face in ministry and the steps they can take to keep them healthy for the long-haul.   

This event will be hosted by North Langley Community Church on Thursday, October 4 from 9:00-noon. The morning will feature two interactive sessions with Dr. Mitchell and a panel discussion. The teaching will address the following questions:  

  • What are the biggest threats to a pastor's sustainability? 
  • Why are pastors often blind to these dangers? 
  • What can pastors do to protect themselves against these dangers? 
  • What do pastors need most from the people who care for them?  

Event participants will have the chance interact with Dr. Mitchell and three others during the panel discussion: Lisa De Vries (Certified Canadian Counsellor at Mercy Seat Ministry), Leonard Klassen (co-lead pastor at King Road MB Church), and Reg Toews (regional director at C2C Network). 

Coffee and light snacks will be provided. The registration rate is $39 for MinistryLift members, $39 for staff of BCMB churches, and $49 for guests. 

Facilitator Bio - Keith Mitchell 

Keith Mitchell (PhD cand, MEd, BMin) is a lecturer in pastoral and practical studies at Morling College, a Baptist theological college near Sydney, Australia. Keith's emphasis includes research in developing leadership sustainability and resilience in pastors. Prior to teaching fulltime at Morling College, Keith had been involved in pastoral ministry for over 17 years. He has been married to Ruth for over 25 years, has 2 married adult children, and 2 teenagers living with them at home. He worships and is involved in a Baptist church community on the Central Coast and likes Thai food and coffee (but not necessarily together).