Typical clergy couple concerns

Not long ago Irene was asked to speak on "transitions" as a plenary speaker at a pastor spouse’s conference. As she listened to conference participants talk about life in the parsonage, she heard echoes of concerns  she and John also struggled with over years of ministry. Conference participants said things like:

• “The church is so important to my husband, I wonder where I and the kids fit in.”
• “I feel like people are judging us because we bought a mini-van this year. Someone actually said to me – 'Well you can’t be doing that bad if you can afford a new car, we can’t afford one this year.’”
• “I am so lonely, I know everyone and every one knows me, but I’m not sure anyone wants to be a real friend. ”
• “Even though my husband and I are having a really tough time in our marriage, we always have to fake it at church. I wish I could be as honest in my women’s group about my marriage as the other women are."
• "My spouse is totally burned out. She has no energy left for any family responsibilities. And with my full-time job I don't have any energy either. She just can't say no. The church just keeps piling stuff on. I don't think our marriage can take this much longer."

How Couples In Step can help

You will profit from both Irene's love for the institutional church along with her keen awareness of its shortcomings. Her practical experience with all the ins and outs of life in the parsonage will also benefit you.

Irene can share different strategies to help you manage ministry stress. She will work with you to set boundaries that will protect your marital and family relationship without sacrificing ministry.

Now...

The services page describes the Couples In Step therapy process in more detail. If you have not read that page in its entirety you may wish to do that now. Or you may proceed to the success stories page.

For more information or to schedule an appointment you can email or call Couples In Step at 416-459-0956.