Called to Community — Relational Wellness3 min read

We know that relational wellness flows from God’s design for His people to live not in isolation but in Christ-centered community. Scripture reminds us, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24). For church workers, healthy relationships are sustained through faithful communication, wise boundaries, and Christ-like conflict resolution. Boundaries allow us to serve with humility without assuming roles God has not given us, remembering that each member of the Body of Christ has a distinct vocation (1 Corinthians 12). Clear and gracious communication reflects the Gospel, as we “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). When conflict arises, as it inevitably will among sinners redeemed by Christ, we return to the pattern our Lord gives in Matthew 18:15, seeking reconciliation with gentleness, forgiveness, and a desire for restored fellowship. In this way, relational wellness is not merely about avoiding tension but about living together as forgiven people, bearing one another’s burdens and reflecting the unity we have already been given in Christ.

Vitality Challenge – Spiritual Retreat (200 points)

Earn points once per year for attending a spiritual retreat organized and sponsored by your district, circuit, or congregation. In order to be eligible for points, the retreat should be at least one full day in length and focus on spiritual or emotional well-being.

Concordia Plan Services Resources: Wellness Champions

• Did you know that Concordia Plan Services (CPS) has a Wellness Champion Planner/Workbook to help you and others stay focused and organized with wellness goals and activities? If you do not have a Wellness Champion yet, it’s not too late. You can always sign up or nominate a person from your organization or congregation. It is a great way to get started on whole-person wellness. CPS’ monthly observance for April is “Spring Your Fitness Forward.”

Other Resources

Devotion: Relational Well-Being

Key events:

• The Katie – A conference for wives and widows of pastors, vicars, and deacons. This conference takes place every year in April. This year’s dates: April 17-19
• Office Personnel Conference – This bi-annual conference is for office managers and administrative assistants. This year it will take place April 26-28
• Beyond The Breakwater – This event is all about mobilizing the church and caring for your community. After gathering at Messiah, Midland for an introduction to the philosophy behind the ministry, you will spend time in the community and see it in action. You will gain knowledge of the structure, driving force, and activities within Messiah’s ministry to the community. The next event will take place April 21, but there will be more throughout the year. Click here to see the dates and pick one to attend!

Books:

• Boundaries by Cloud & Townsend
• Boundaries workbook by Cloud & Townsend
• Congregational Leadership in Anxious Times by Peter Steinke
• Leading Through Storms: Successfully Navigating Ministry While Maintaining Your Mental Health by Dudley
• Reclaiming the Joy of Ministry: The Grace Place Way to Relational Wellness Workbook by Zimmerman
• Conflict resolution resource: Ambassadors of Reconciliation.

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