29 June 2017
Professional Supervision for Ministers
The Methodist Conference, currently taking place in
Birmingham, has confirmed that "social worker style" supervision is
to be introduced for its ordained ministers.
This new programme of one-to-one support is the first of its kind
within a UK Christian denomination.
Supervision was recommended within the Methodist Church's Past
Case Review (2015) as a way to increase support and accountability
for safe practice and provide vital pastoral care to value and
nurture ministers while ensuring their well-being.
A study by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre in
2012 reported that one of the most effective safeguards within
organisations and professional settings is the frequent, open and
supportive supervision of staff.
Supervision will take place within the Methodist district
framework. Chairs, Superintendents and those nominated to undertake
the supervision, will all receive appropriate training. Within the
Methodist Church the supervision will take place at six one-to-one
meetings throughout the year. It is intended for all ministers to
have been in supervision for at least six months by 2020.
The Revd Dr Jonathan Hustler, Minister Coordinator for the
Oversight of Ordained Ministries, said: "The supervision of
ordinated ministers was identified by the Past Cases Review as an
important safeguard to protect children, the vulnerable and
ministers themselves. The life of a modern minister is not as
idyllic as popular culture portrays. While it is a privilege to be
called to carry the burdens of others, it can be an emotionally
demanding and isolating role.
"Supporting those in crisis alongside the day to day operations of
a church means some ministers can occasionally feel over-whelmed.
As demands on our ordained ministers increases, we must make sure
that those providing the support are supported themselves. Ensuring
that our ministers have an opportunity to unload emotionally, have
the tools in place to do their job and have their own spiritual
needs supported is vital to ensure the long-term well-being of the
Church."