The last year has been witness to a spate of pastors committing suicide.

At times, the pastor has left no note. For some, there is no apparent explanation for what Frank Page has called “a permanent solution to what is usually a temporary problem.”

When a pastor kills himself, there is always speculation about secret sins (addictions, affairs and the like), but I suspect—absent later revelations—the enormous pressure of the pastorate, coupled with depression, are the culprits…

This post at ChurchLeaders offers a variety of practical suggestions to encourage and protect the emotional and mental health of pastors. John Steven’s excellent book on the subject shows empathy for the temptation, yet gives hope with a new perspective on life through the fuller message of the Cross. See his book description here.

See the full ChurchLeaders article here.