Date
11-2014
Department
Seminary
Degree
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Chair
Charlie Davidson
Keywords
Children, Counseling, Parenting, Pastor, Prodigal, Rebellious Children
Disciplines
Christianity | Practical Theology | Religion
Recommended Citation
Ayers, Ryan, "The Pastor's Faithless Child: Strengthening Methods for Hurting Parent-Pastors" (2014). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 944.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/944
Abstract
Parent-pastors face challenges when balancing vocational and familial responsibilities every day, and when faithless adolescent children are part of their family dynamic the hardship is magnified. These pastors often experience debilitating critique from their faith communities and colleagues while carrying the burden of raising a rebellious child. Utilizing a phenomenological study process, one hundred transparent interviews with parent-pastors are used to identify assumptions and realities surrounding the hurting parent-pastor's dilemma. Leading principles that have helped other parent-pastors cope with the overwhelming affects of their child's behavior will be introduced, empowering those who are hurting identify their stress points and overcome personal distress.
