Church leadership is a big deal. Whether you’re preaching on Sundays, leading a vestry meeting, running a ministry, or keeping the coffee fresh for Bible study, you’re part of something much bigger than yourself. The work of the Church is vast, complex, and—let’s be honest—sometimes exhausting. But here’s the good news: you’re not supposed to do it alone.

From local parishes to dioceses to broader ministry networks, the strength of the Church is found in leaders working together. No single person carries the mission solo. Instead, we collaborate, bring our unique gifts to the table, and support one another. That is how we fulfill our calling to reach North America with the transforming love of Jesus Christ.

But collaboration doesn’t happen automatically. It takes effort. We need clear roles and healthy communication at every level—the province, the diocese, the local church, and ministry organizations like the American Anglican Council. When we approach these relationships with humility, grace, and a shared commitment to the Gospel, we become stronger. The Kingdom of God moves forward, not because of lone-ranger leaders, but because of a community of faithful servants working together.

Leading Well Starts with Being Well

Leadership is a privilege, but it also comes with serious responsibilities. It demands wisdom, endurance, and—most importantly—an ongoing dependence on God’s grace. The apostle Paul gives us a crucial reminder: “Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.” (Acts 20:28) Notice the order: first, take care of yourself, then take care of the people entrusted to you.

Here’s the reality: many leaders are running on fumes. They’re stretched thin, worn out, and sometimes don’t even realize how depleted they are until they hit a wall. We pour ourselves into preaching, counseling, planning, leading, and organizing, often sacrificing our own well-being in the process.

But here’s the thing—Jesus never led from exhaustion.

Look at His ministry. Jesus had a rhythm of work and retreat. He withdrew to pray (Luke 5:16). He encouraged His disciples to rest (Mark 6:31). He set boundaries, refused to be rushed, and built deep, life-giving relationships. If Jesus needed rest, why do we think we can get by without it? If we want to lead well, we must be well. We need to follow Christ’s way of being and leading. This means

• establishing rhythms of work and rest that actually sustain us.
• prioritizing our own spiritual, emotional, and physical health.
• remembering that we are not the Savior—Jesus is.

Building a Culture of Health in the Church

Healthy leadership isn’t just a personal commitment—it’s something we build together. The Church flourishes when its leaders are spiritually renewed, emotionally whole, and physically healthy. But this doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intentionality at every level.

• At the provincial level, we need to set the tone for leadership care and development. Our gatherings and training events should not only equip leaders with skills but also reinforce the importance of soul care, as was the case with our wonderful Provincial Assembly in Latrobe, PA this past summer!
• Dioceses play a key role in creating environments where clergy feel supported. Bishops and diocesan leaders must make relational support, mentoring, and accountability a priority.
• Parishes need to model a culture of health in their communities. Vestries and lay leaders can ensure that their clergy and lay leaders have time for Sabbath, personal renewal, and healthy boundaries.
• Ministry partners like the AAC bring essential resources—coaching, training, and outside perspectives that help leaders navigate challenges and stay strong for the long haul.

No one entity can do this alone. We need each other. When we commit to seeing one another thrive, the entire Church benefits.

A Personal Invitation

So, here’s our encouragement to you: Be well. Lead well. You are not alone, and you were never meant to carry this burden by yourself. If you’re feeling drained, reach out. Whether you need coaching, prayer, or would enjoy a conversation about the challenges you’re facing, the American Anglican Council is here to walk alongside you. The Kingdom of God does not advance through burned-out leaders. It flourishes through those who abide in Christ, lead from a place of strength, and empower others to do the same.

Be well. Lead well.