Thesis

The Rev. Ian Braybrook served for 32 years as a parish priest within the Diocese of Melbourne. As part of his Master of Ministry studies, he wrote his thesis entitled, Maintaining Health in Anglican Clergy within the Diocese of Melbourne. This paper involved interviewing 8 Anglican clergy who had ministered effectively for some years without experiencing burnout. The study identified four essential elements which enabled these clergy to remain resilient through the pressures and stresses of their respective ministries:  

1. Spiritual Life

2. Support Networks

3. Satisfaction

4. Realistic Expectations

Ian Braybrook will challenge you to take seriously the maintenance of your health and provide strategies that will enable you to work successfully in the ministry for the long haul.  Ian points out that although a variety of people can provide you with assistance, the primary responsibility for care lies within yourself.  He will encourage you to take the initiative to build a framework of self -care structures enabling you to maximise your effectiveness and efficiency in ministry.  The Rev. Ian Braybrook (1945-2002) was passionate about providing knowledge and insight around health for clergy.  We offer this paper as a memorial to Ian’s life and trust God will bless you and your ministry as you put these principles into practice.