Open AccessQualitative Perspectives toward Relational Connection in Pastoral Ministry
Author(s) -
Jonathan W. Young,
Michael W. Firmin
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
the qualitative report
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2160-3715
DOI - 10.46743/2160-3715/2014.1201
Subject(s) - christian ministry , qualitative research , connection (principal bundle) , sociology , qualitative property , pastoral theology , psychology , social psychology , gender studies , social science , political science , engineering , computer science , law , structural engineering , machine learning
We present the results of a phenomenological, qualitative research study in which 13 Southern Baptist (SB) pastors were administered in-depth interviews. The sample was selected from a total of 37 exemplars, identified in the quantitative component of a larger mixed-methods study, regarding the pastors’ perspectives toward relational connection in pastoral ministry. Three themes emerged from the data regarding relational connection in pastoral ministry. First, pastors indicated the need to be intentional about pastoral connection. Second, the pastors stressed the importance of being available to congregants who specifically desire pastoral connection. Finally, the participants related that pastors should give particular attention to connections with lay church leaders.