What about the Pastor's

Just finished up with the Pastor's conference in Bismark today. All in all I really thought the conference was great. The presentations were all very well done and the topics were helpful. I am left with one question echoing in my mind. the question was posed, during a discussion on the health of the pastors, "Who does a pastor turn to when he needs a pastor?" The first thought was a circuit counselor, however that relationship can also be one of ecclesiastical supervision, meaning a evaluation of one's suitability to be serve as a pastor. This would require the reporting of anything of any behaviors, attitudes or conduct fringing upon unethical or befitting of a Christian leader. And while this position is necessary and helpful there is also a need for genuine pastoral care for pastors. Who do I go to when I am in need of absolution? Who do I turn to when I need guidance in my marriage or ministerial conduct? Often times the need for pastoral care and direction could manifest itself before the extent of needing a circuit counselor. So when a pastor is hurting from the brokenness of the world, or feeling the pressures of the ministry, to whom does he turn without feeling judged or inadequate? Where do our pastors get the help they need to continue providing the services the laity needs? I think the only solution is to turn to our brothers in the ministry. Pastors must turn to fellow pastors for accountability and stability. We must provide care for each other. And we must do so as a pastor to a parishioner, with patience, prayer, love and a suspension of judgment. We are in a unique situation to understand the challenges and hardships of the ministry and we must provide this service to allow our pastors to continue in effective service to the Church. Pastors need the grace and assurance of Christ too.