Sustaining Ministry – Foundations and Practices for Serving Faithfully

I have served in the disciplinary courts of the Presbyterian Church (USA) since 1981. Twice I have had the difficult duty of investigating ministers accused of sexual misconduct and serving as prosecutor in their church trials. I have also served as moderator of a Permanent Judicial Commission (Jury for the trials). Twice I have served as trial counsel for the prosecution in similar cases (as a "church lawyer," since I have a Ph.D. in Christian ethics and an M.A. in clinical psychology and have taught a seminary course in Presbyterian polity). Sonda Wheeler's work is exactly right about pastoral responsibility, needs, temptations, and moral crises. She also presents the "Practices that Sustain Faithfulness." This book should be required reading for all Protestant clergy.

This superb book is clearly and accessibly written. The section on prayer shines. Dr Wheeler’s brilliant mind, a delight to see in action, never overshadows but instead illuminates her personal commitment to a grounded and faithful Christian life. Her choice to write in positive terms rather than “thou shall not” terms makes her advice and counsel especially engaging. Although directed mainly at clergy, much of this book will be of service to laity wishing to go deeper in their faith. A truly splendid piece of work.

This is a powerful book in that it pulls the covers back on the behavior that is rendering the preacher in-effective in a serious loving manner to give ministers a chance to be who God has called them to be. It is a must read.

I loved the simplicity of this book. The different way to look at ethics of practicing ministry was insightful and helpful!

The book is great and beneficial to my current studies.