Musings of a Christian Psychologist wrote a significant post called pastors dealing with infatuated parishioners today. Vocational pastoral ministry has a variety of issues that create awkward and unnecessary attachments and dependencies. Here is an excerpt:
What do pastors need to do? Build solid, clear boundaries. When boundaries are violated, they need to address those violations and involve other leaders or appropriate people–including the legal system should the person persist stalk? the pastor.
In reality, we spend far more time making sure that pastors understand their power and do not abuse it. We don’t spend a whole lot of time helping them protect themselves.
I believe it is right to make sure that “pastors understand their power and do not abuse it.” We don’t do enough in this regard. Frankly, I think the modern role of pastor is a biblical and practical abnormality. Yes, discipleship is necessary but one-man/woman ministerial dependence is unnecessary.
