Welcome To "Shepherd's Care"

“I know what to do. I just don't want to do it anymore.” These words from a former student, who had been in ministry for less than ten years, ignited a flame in my soul that led Jeannie and me to begin in 1992 the Shepherd’s Care ministry to ministers and their families.

Decades later, these words continue to be voiced in differing ways. Malaise remains high for clergy and their families. The need for care is as great today as it was back then, in some ways even greater.

Shepherd's Care on Substack will offer encouragement and support in a variety of ways, with self-care as the main focus. In the “Letters to Chris” series I write about clergy wellness and formation, with attention to clergy spouses and families as well.

I’ve chosen to address the letters to Chris because it is a name that persons of any gender or orientation can have. And while Chris is not a literal person, Chris is real--a composite of former students and clergy friends with whom I have shared the journey. Chris is me. Chris is you. I look forward to being in touch with you through the letters.

Within the self-care context, I post an occasional series called “Thrive!” stepping outside the letter format to share other things with you about clergy/family vitality. Additional themes will evolve as I hear from followers about things they would find helpful. Stay tuned.

A monthly newsletter, “Care Notes,” will keep you updated about Shepherd's Care. Everything is here on this Substack page.

And this question: Is Shepherd's Care only for clergy? No. Many of the ideas are applicable to everyone. And more, laity are primary caregivers to their pastors. You will gain insights for doing this personally and in your congregation as you read the “Congregational Clergy Care” series.

Judicatories are also primary caregivers, from the time a person begins the ordination journey until they die. “System Care” posts will explore this.

So, this page is devoted to clergy and their families in the threefold matrix of self-care, congregational care, and judicatorial care.

If you find these things helpful, join the journey. If you know others who would be interested, let them know about Shepherd's Care here on Substack.

Thank you! Steve Harper

P.S. If I am someone you do not know, go to the “Bio & Books” tag on the homepage, where I tell you about myself and ministry.