What's Happening?
During Pastoral Care Week, a Catholic psychotherapist, Adrienne Koller, addressed nearly 100 chaplains in a webinar organized by the National Association of Catholic Chaplains. Koller emphasized the importance
of self-care, describing it as stewardship rather than selfishness. She encouraged chaplains to engage in prayer, rest, and self-care to combat burnout, a common challenge in their line of work. Koller highlighted that self-care honors the vessel God entrusted to individuals, strengthening their calling rather than detracting from it. The webinar aimed to provide chaplains with tools to manage the emotional weight of their service, which can lead to burnout if unchecked.
Why It's Important?
The emphasis on self-care as stewardship is crucial for chaplains who often face emotional and spiritual exhaustion due to the nature of their work. By reframing self-care as a necessary part of their ministry, chaplains can better manage burnout, ensuring they remain effective in their roles. This approach not only benefits the chaplains but also the communities they serve, as it allows them to provide sustained support without compromising their well-being. The initiative by the National Association of Catholic Chaplains to offer resources and training underscores the importance of addressing burnout in spiritual care professions.
What's Next?
The National Association of Catholic Chaplains plans to launch a learning institute early next year, which will include courses on sustaining pastoral ministers and helping them avoid burnout. This initiative aims to provide ongoing support and education for chaplains, equipping them with strategies to manage the emotional demands of their work. The association will continue to offer webinars, networking groups, and in-person gatherings to foster community and provide resources for chaplains across the country.
