Carl Lentz is headed to treatment, according to People magazine. A source close to the former Hillsong pastor tells People that Lentz will be seeking ‘treatment at an outpatient facility that specializes in depression, anxiety, and pastoral burnout,’ following his recent infidelity.
People reports Lentz, 42, was ousted from Hillsong last month after 10 years, and later admitted to being unfaithful to his wife, Laura, whom he married in 2003 and with whom he shares three children. This is one of many such sad stories in the Body of Christ.
What can we learn from Lentz’s moral failure? How much does pastoral burnout play in infidelity, alcohol abuse, or the other issues that tempt pastors to give into situations from which they should be fleeing? Would you recognize burnout in your ministry? What are the signs?
There are clear warning signs of pastoral or ministry burnout—which is a state of chronic stress that leads to emotional and physical exhaustion. If you recognize these signs in your life, take action before you fall. I won’t expound on these signs too much because if you are burned out, you probably don’t have much energy to read an in-depth article.
Chronic fatigue no matter how much you sleep
Insomnia no matter if you take sleeping aids
- Chest pain
- Stomach issues
- Dizziness or headaches
- Self-medicating behavior, whether alcohol, drugs or some other escape
- Forgetfulness
- Poor concentration
- Getting sick more often
- Anxiety and depression
- Loss of appetite
- Bursts of anger
- Pessimistic attitude
- Detachment
- Isolation
- Apathy
- Irritability
- No enjoyment of life
- Reduce productivity
- Poor performance
Of course, other issues could cause these symptoms but if you have many of these symptoms you could be facing burnout. I would implore you to act before it’s too late. Burnout is actually a medical diagnoses that can have long-term effects on your life.
If you notice signs of burnout manifesting in your life, take action now. Access what’s causing the burnout and make adjustments. Find ways to change or cut back on the stressors. I have experienced physical and emotional burnout and I can tell you there is a way through. You can break this cycle.
If you want go deeper with me in this topic, join me for Dealing with Ministry Burnout here.
