Recently I was having a conversation with some teachers at a local Lutheran school. They referred to the season from Halloween/Reformation Day to Epiphany as “the devil’s trifecta.” October 31^st begins “the season of busy” as pastors, DCE’s, and educators are planning for Advent, Christmas programs and concerts, end-of-year giving drives, and also trying to do their own personal Christmas shopping and planning! And do not get me started on trying to get everyone into the doctor, dentist, etc. since you met this year’s medical deductible.

This season can be overwhelming, depressing, and a challenge for some to manage. We need to be aware of how the devil uses the busyness of this time to distract us from focusing on the true meaning of the seasons. As church workers, we are called to care for those God has placed in our ministry areas.

But who cares for you?

How do you manage the loss of a loved one during this season? How do you coordinate all things ministry and have a Thanksgiving and Christmas that is special with your family? How do you manage the loneliness of being miles away from your family at the holidays? These are all difficult questions and there are no easy answers.

Here are a few ideas to think about as you enter this wonderful, yet chaotic season between October 31^st and Epiphany as a church worker family:

• • Schedule time each day to be still (reading your Bible, praying, etc.).
  • Schedule time each week for Sabbath rest. It may not be a full day, but a couple of hours is better than nothing.
  • Schedule a couple of days off between Christmas and New Year or in January.
  • Make sure you get enough sleep.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Eat a few vegetables to balance out the holiday treats. Remember it is all about balance.
  • Exercise is a great way to care for yourself and manage stress.
  • Consider using your eight EAP sessions through Concordia Health Plans.
  • Ask for help when needed. There are parents and church members that would love to help. Try to ask early if possible.
  • Choose your special thing. My husband is a pastor and on Christmas Eve between the three services we made a tradition of having appetizers and desserts between the services and would open gifts to one another (secret Santa/angel).
  • Invite other church worker families to celebrate with you.
  • Celebrate Christmas in July (or whenever) with your extended family.
  • Give yourself permission to say “no” to things that aren’t essential.

Thankfully, we live under an umbrella of grace. And we can be creative in making the holidays special for our families while serving in our ministries. We are blessed to have the opportunity to serve our Lord and His people during this season, but remember it is also important to care for you too!

If you as a church worker (or that special church worker in your life) are in need of Christ-centered mental health or marriage counseling, contact us today.

• Angela Kollbaum, LIMHP, CPC, DCE
• Call: 402-644-8048
• Email: [email protected]
• Web Form: http://lutheranfamilyservice.org/contact/

Lutheran Family Service walks with those experiencing difficult times through mental health counseling, marriage counseling, crisis pregnancy counseling, and adoption services.