Going the distance: how to stay fit for a lifetime of ministry

  • Peter Brain
  • 16 October 2009
Christian ministry is not a sprint; it's a marathon, a long-term race, requiring not just initial enthusiasm and ability, but staying power.

Unfortunately, a growing number of Christian ministers don't seem to possess that staying power. 44% of all pastors who have been involved in ministry for more than 15 years suffer from "burn out", mental breakdown or serious illness. And that doesn't include those who fail to continue in active ministry for other reasons, such as immorality or loss of faith.

Going the distance is about making sure you're not one of those statistics.

Drawing on decades of biblical reflection and experience, Peter Brain explains how to keep fit mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually for the long-haul.
This is a book for anyone engaged in Christian ministry, whether lay or ordained, and would be an ideal book for pastors to read with their lay leaders.

"This is a book of unusual insight and pertinent, practical wisdom for both the minister and the congregation, to enable them to live together in mutual respect and love, so as to model in their relationships the liberating grace of God, to whom they all belong. Every church leader and every church member would benefit from reading this book."—David Jackman (Director, Cornhill Training Course, London)

Peter Brain has been a pastor since 1975, and has worked in Sydney, Adelaide, Perth and Armidale Anglican dioceses. He is now Bishop of the Armidale Diocese. He is married to Christine, and they have four adult children.