ABHMS’ clergy wellness series continues with November gathering, ’Sanctuary for the Soul’
VALLEY FORGE, PA (11/14/2025)—American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ is hosting the second gathering in its new clergy wellness initiative, “You Are Not Alone: A Sanctuary for Clergy Wellness,” on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET. The online event, “Sanctuary for the Soul,” will be led by Dr. Yvonne Martinez Thorne, founder and CEO of Cultivating Wholeness Counseling Associates.
ABHMS’ Healing & Transforming Communities unit launched the initiative for clergy who serve congregations and are feeling deeply the weight of their vocation and a sense of isolation in their leadership. It responds to a growing need for intentional care among clergy experiencing the emotional toll of pandemic recovery, social polarization, church decline, and pastoral overextension.
“Every pastor knows the weight of leading through uncertainty—sleepless nights, silent doubts, steadily pouring out care for others while quietly running dry, said Dr. Jennifer Stewart, director of Healing & Transforming Communities at ABHMS. “But even shepherds need rest. Even leaders need a sanctuary.” During the November session, Dr. Thorne will share spiritual strategies to help the participants slow down and recenter themselves by muting internal and external noise. These strategies are vital to sustaining ministry amid social disruption and information overload.
“It is crucial that ministers take care of themselves to be in optimal condition to serve others,” said Rev. Abigail Medina-Betancourt, who is helping plan the November 19 gathering. “We are living in tumultuous times. We need to stop, recharge, organize our minds —and keep going. The system wants us tired and overwhelmed so we can’t organize and fight for justice. Come together for reflection, hope, and spiritual support. Let’s lift each other in faith and community!”
In the spirit of Ecclesiastes 3:1, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven,” ABHMS is committed to honoring the rhythm of work, rest, and renewal in ministry life. In December, the series will feature Rev. Saeed Richardson, focusing on the importance of cybersecurity; in January, Clifton Strain, Phil Cook, and the ABHMS finance team will share how to navigate stresses that the current sociopolitical climate has placed on personal finances.
To register for the free November 19 event, visit You Are Not Alone.
American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.
