Supporting those who spend their lives supporting everyone else.

Every congregation has caregivers such as pastors, lay ministers, family members, and volunteers who show compassion every day. They visit the sick, comfort those who are grieving, and support people who are tired. But while they care for others, they often forget to care for themselves. A ministry is only as strong as the well-being of its leaders, including their emotional and spiritual health. Visit our Leadership Training page for more.

Understanding Compassion Fatigue

Caregivers can experience compassion fatigue, which is emotional exhaustion from always being around others’ pain. This can look like irritability, feeling distant, or being very tired. Noticing these signs early helps caregivers get the rest they need before they burn out. Ministry leaders should talk openly about fatigue and encourage regular rest for caregivers.

Practicing Personal Renewal

Restoring emotional balance starts with small, thoughtful choices. Taking a quiet walk, listening to music, or making time for prayer and reflection can help caregivers regain their strength. Some people also find renewal through creative activities like journaling or art. These habits are not luxuries; they are ways to care for the spirit. Scripture shows that even Jesus took time away from the crowds to pray and renew His energy.

Free Resources: Caregiver Energy Plan and Clergy Self-Care Checkup

Building a Network of Support

Caregivers should not have to serve by themselves. Strong care ministries build support networks where volunteers and leaders can share their struggles and encourage each other. Pastors can set up times for caregivers to talk about their challenges and receive support. These connections help prevent isolation and remind caregivers they are part of a team.

Modeling Healthy Boundaries

Sustainable caregiving requires setting boundaries that respect both compassion and personal limits. Being able to say, “I need rest,” or “Let’s get more help,” protects caregivers and those they care for. When churches teach boundary-setting as good stewardship, they build a healthier and stronger caring community.

Caregiving is sacred work, but even this work needs rest. When caregivers are supported, their compassion grows stronger and lasts longer.

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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org, for free, confidential 24/7 support for people in distress and those supporting them

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Source: Adapted and Edited from OpenAI. (2026). ChatGPT (ChatGPT 5) [Thinking]. https://chatgpt.com