Denominational perceptions of stress and the provision of support services for clergy families

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine what various denominations perceived about stress in the lives of their clergy and their families to determine the types of supportive services currently being provided by denominations for clergy families. The population for this study included 33 denominations that each reported more than 200,000 U.S. members: 28 denominations chose to participate. Each participating denomination was contacted by telephone to determine a representative within the denominational hierarchy who could give a relatively definitive answer to the questions of interest for the present study. Descriptive and inferential statistical procedures indicated that a majority of denominations have some awareness of the stresses and demands that their clergy and their families are facing. However, only a minority of denominations are providing support services that might help clergy manage effectively the resultant stress. Denominations' perceptions of stresses and demands as well as the types of support services provided are identified and discussed. Recommendations and implications are identified for future program development and evaluation. © 1994 Human Sciences Press, Inc.