Social Justice

Social Justice and Peace

Ministers whose congregations are actively pursuing peace or social justice work may wish to consider: how will they bolster the well-being of their flock, so they don’t end up with frustrated, angry peace activists?

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Congregant Guilt, Time Binds, and Overwork

It is interesting to note the double-bind in which ministers sometimes find themselves, preaching a work ethic, requesting support for their ministry, and working for family values. When these are in conflict – and according to Lebacqz and Driskil, they are – they need to be examined sensitively. For example, simply stating that one does not support working mothers is not being supportive, if the reality is that many women in the congregation do work outside the home.  Job loss or financial setbacks should also be addressed, to alleviate the sense of personal failure in congregants.

It is important, also, to be sensitive and non harming to the congregants, who often face many competing requests for their time and talents. They may take on added burdens as requested, even to the point of exhaustion or personal detriment. Consider:  “parish attitudes often contribute to the time-bind of their members by instilling a  sense of guilt in those who are unable or unwilling to devote hours of volunteer service to congregational concerns.”[1]  Help congregants make wise choices about how hard they work, how much they volunteer, and how much time they spend with their families.

1.  Lebacqz, Karen and Driskill, Joseph D. Ethics and Spiritual Care; a Guide for Pastors, Chaplains, and Spiritual Directors. Abingdon Press. Nashville. 2000. 120-121.