Program
Doctor of Ministry
Number of Pages
184
Year Approved
2025
First Advisor
Carroll, Joshua O.
Second Reader
Katie Friesen Smith; Jeanine Parolini
Abstract
Vocational ministry leaders are at an increased risk of burnout due to the demands of their roles in ministry, which can result in burnout. The problem this project addressed was the mitigating effect of the spiritual habits of resting in solitude and the disciplines of prayer, fasting, study and meditation of Scripture, and Sabbath to aid in mitigating incidents of burnout for vocational ministry leaders within South Florida church communities. The timeline for this project started in 2007, with continuing incidents of burnout occurring through the present day. The Researcher used a mixed methods approach and conducted quantitative and qualitative research through surveys and interviews to identify the rhythms of resting in solitude as a means of mitigating burnout for vocational ministry leaders. This study explores the effects of resting in solitude as a mitigating factor for burnout, emphasizing its biblical and theological foundations. This study examined scriptural examples of solitude practiced by Old Testament figures such as David, Moses, Elijah, and Daniel, who foreshadowed the ultimate model demonstrated by Jesus in the gospels and a scholarly literature review. This research contributes to the broader discussion on vocational ministry leader wellness, offering practical recommendations for implementing sustainable rhythms of work and rest that align with biblical principles. By fostering a culture of spiritual formation and accountability, vocational ministry leaders can cultivate long-term sustainability in their roles, ultimately benefiting both the church and the communities they serve.
Degree Name
Doctor of Ministry
Document Type
Doctoral thesis
Recommended Citation
Ives, S. L. (2025). Vocational Ministry Leader Burnout: Exploring the Effects of the Spiritual Discipline of Resting in Solitude on the Mitigation of Burnout for Vocational Ministry Leaders in South Florida [Doctoral thesis, Bethel University]. Spark Repository. https://spark.bethel.edu/etd/1175
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