My Burden Is Light
Being a clergyperson can be stressful—mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and relationally. From pressure to grow their congregations to unrealistic expectations from church members to poorly defined guidelines about working hours or tasks, new pastors sometimes flounder. Even experienced pastors can get caught off guard by deep-seated dysfunction in their congregations or other circumstances that trigger psychological issues from their past. This book helps pastors explore the situations that make them vulnerable to burn-out, misconduct, spiritual dryness, health issues, depression, and more. Through real-life stories, pragmatic advice, and psychological and spiritual wisdom, the author will show readers how to practice good self-care while maintaining effectiveness and reignite the energy and passion that first fueled their call to ordained ministry.
Healing the Ravaged Soul
“Why does God hate me?” “How can I believe in a God who has allowed my suffering?” These are just two of the difficult spiritual questions that survivors of child sexual abuse struggle with. In addition, survivors often have mixed feelings about the church, either because of perceived judgment and indifference, their own shame, or their discomfort with certain aspects of worship. Of the many after effects of sexual abuse, spiritual wounds are the least talked about, yet they are central to adult survivors who seek to heal and find faith and meaning in their lives. With grace and gentleness, this book seeks to answer survivors’ spiritual questions and address some of the common misperceptions that often developed when young victims attempted to understand what was happening to them. It explores the origins of their spiritual issues with clear psychological insights and guides survivors on a spiritual journey toward healing, wholeness, and a deeper relationship with God.
This book was born out of the author’s experiences working with survivors of child sexual abuse in therapy and spiritual direction. As a pastoral counselor, spirituality and faith were often a topic of conversation, and she came to understand how wounded these lost souls were regarding God and the church. Unfortunately, very few books about healing from sexual abuse addressed the area of a survivor’s spiritual life. It is hoped that Healing the Ravaged Soul will fill that void.
Sue Magrath is available to speak to groups and organizations about this important topic.
Sue’s Books are available directly from her publisher and on Amazon
Follow Sue on Facebook
