Mental Health

The Rev. Angela Cooley Bulhof hugs Caton Darling during a visit to his home in Lake Charles, La., to check on the progress of repairs following Hurricane Laura in 2020. Bulhof, pastor of University United Methodist Church in Lake Charles, says Louisiana has been pounded by seven hurricanes and two tropical storms since August 2020. File photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Stress, burnout afflicting pastors

The daily life of United Methodist pastors is getting more and more stressful, with COVID-19, racial unrest, natural disasters and a likely denominational split over sexuality taking a toll.

Faith Stories

The Rev. Juanita Rasmus, co-pastor of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Houston, is sharing lessons she learned from her experience with major depression. She’s written a book, given workshops and done a TED Talk. Rasmus’ five-hour “Learning to Be: Immersive” event, to be held in person and online, will occur Nov. 20. Photo courtesy of the Rev. Juanita Rasmus.

Pastor found 'treasures' in depression battle

The Rev. Juanita Rasmus of Houston will offer a five-hour “Learning to Be: Immersive” workshop, drawing on insights she gained in coming back from major depression.

Social Concerns

The Rev. Dr. Ron Bell. Photo courtesy of the author.

‘I wasn’t breathing’: Tragedy leads to trauma ministry, book

George Floyd’s murder prompts questions as well as a drive to bring healing and address mental health challenges.

Mission and Ministry

The Rev. Thomas Kim. Photo by Kathleen Barry, UM News

Enforced COVID-19 isolation recalls days in prison

The Rev. Thomas Kim reflects on how the enforced isolation recalls his time in prison. While that isolation is hard to take, he writes that it is nearly impossible to take the racism and xenophobia aimed at Asian Americans.

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