Guide to Ongoing Formation for Priests (Ascension)

GOFP 280

Appendix B: Evaluating When a Priest Requires Assistance

278 Spiritual Direction: Many priests lack a spiritual director, a lack that is deleterious for one’s vocational and ministerial health. However, if spiritual direction is regularly provided and significant problems persist, a spiritual assessment is indicated. A PRIEST’S HEALTH ANALYSIS 279 The foregoing inventory provides an opportunity to analyze various sources of stress that can contribute to deterioration in physical, psychological, and spiritual health. After the priest writes out responses to each subtopic, reviewing them with an objective, balanced perspective is important. Rarely is the news all bad. After reflecting on both strengths and weaknesses, the diocesan bishop or his delegate needs to weigh this basic question: Is the priest managing the stress, or is stress managing him? 280 If stress has the upper hand and there are signs of dysfunction, then it is important to address those areas that need more attention. Sometimes the priest needs to simply change certain routines and set a few simple goals. However, the diocesan bishop or his delegate may find it necessary to request a referral for further physical, psychological, or spiritual assessment.

127