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At Wespath and GBHEM, we believe that the body of Christ will grow healthier as the physical well-being of clergy improves. Unfortunately, over the past 10 years, clergy have reported a marked decline in their overall physical well-being, including increasing rates of diabetes, pre-diabetes and obesity, as well as higher rates of these conditions than a matched benchmark of the general U.S. population.

Church leadership and congregations can help clergy improve these trends by actively supporting clergy to devote time to healthy habits. These include eating and sleeping well and encouraging physical activity that brings joy – playing a sport, walking, meditation, dancing, gardening, and many others. Physical activity does not need to be a chore. Finding enjoyable activities leads to abundant life and increased likelihood for long-term healthy patterns.

State of Clergy Physical Well-Being

Rev. Mike Baughman of General Board of Higher Education & Ministry shares thoughts on the current state of clergy physical well-being. This video is part of a collaboration between Wespath Benefits and Investments to help address systemic issues affecting clergy well-being.

Resources

50 Ways to Support Your Pastor’s Well-Being – These tips from Wespath’s “50 Ways to Support Your Pastor” can help empower congregational leaders to positively influence clergy physical well-being.

  • Encourage the pastor to be physically active and participate in recreational activities appropriate to his/ her abilities.
  • Encourage the pastor to care for his/her physical health by resting when overworked and not working when ill.
  • Ensure healthy food choices are available at potlucks and other church events
  • Allow the pastor to take time off for doctor’s appointments, preventive screenings, etc.

Video: Exploring Clergy Physical Well-Being – Wespath’s Jodi Benacka interviews Rev. Erin Totten Jones from the Illinois Great Rivers Conference about her personal wellness journey, finding a balance and sharing ways to create a supportive environment….or something like that. Feel free to tweak!


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