In our last blog on priestly burnout, we provided data and information on the rate of depression and burnout among priests. It is possible that you read the blog with interest and said I know burned out priests but that’s not me. Are you sure? It may be more obvious to those around you, then it is to you personally. Being a priest often creates a “superman” syndrome. You feel you need to be immune to the problems we all face. In addition, as a priest, you face additional stressors others don’t experience.
Matthew Bloom is an associate professor at Notre Dame University who works with clergy on issues of job satisfaction and burnout. In an article in National Catholic Reporter (9/20/18), Bloom is quoted as saying, “Most of what we’re finding is that ministry work is getting more difficult.” He cites the issues of a more secular society, lower church attendance, financial pressures, and difficult staff members. In addition, parishioners can often be critical and demanding rather than supportive and understanding.
Catholic parish priests are often more isolated and alone than their clergy brethren in religious orders or monasteries. This condition deprives them of an outlet to share their frustrations and concerns.
To better understand if you may be experiencing burnout you can begin by taking an online survey. Quiet Waters Ministry has an online survey that you can use as a starting point https://www.qwaters.org/resources/burned-out-survey/?gclid=CjwKCAjw-e2EBhAhEiwAJI5jg_tKa8nxhhwi60aadmY9eIujkkgrVUv4TcNEE4N-ToN4kOeh1-8H3xoCyzoQAvD_BwE. They also offer counseling and other helpful services on their website that are worth looking at.
If that survey (or any other that you find) indicates that you may be struggling, and you still find it difficult to accept, perhaps you can discuss the survey with a trusted friend or colleague. It can serve as a good way to open candid and honest discussion. The results may surprise you, but it also may provide the feedback you need to act.
Another website, https://workwellresearch.org/, has a section called Flourishing in Ministry. They are extensively involved in research in this area. The following quote explains their work and comes directly from their website: Focused on the wellbeing of clergy and their families, Flourishing in Ministry examines what motivates pastors and priests to be engaged in ministry—and what disrupts them from experiencing wellbeing in their work. In our research, we attempt to explore how clergy—often working with lean resources—can give so much to others and experience a sense of fulfillment and growth in their daily work lives. Our researchers continue to study the emerging trends of how clergy can live into their calling, feel a sense of fulfillment, and feel engaged in a very demanding environment.
The bottom line is that although your ministry may be rewarding in many ways it is also stressful and demanding. It is easy to become overworked and under appreciated. The information above is intended to reassure you that you are not alone in feeling this and that there are resources and organizations that can help. Next time, we will look at some options that you can employ yourself to help.