The Pastor’s Family (Brian & Cara Croft)

The Pastor’s Family

Shepherding Your Family through the Challenges of Pastoral Ministry

A thoughtful book written uniquely for male pastors that provides helpful insight in how to faithfully serve his family while also faithfully tending to the church.

Written by husband and wife team Brian and Cara Croft, The Pastor’s Family identifies the complicated burdens and expectations ministry brings to the life of the family. The authors identify the unique challenges that pastors face as husbands and fathers, as well as the difficulties and joys of being a pastor’s wife.

They also highlight the joys of serving together as a family and the unique opportunities pastors have to train their children and lead their families. With discussion questions for use by couples, this book is ideal for pastors and their spouses and pastoral ministry students and their wives. The Pastor’s Family equips pastors with time-tested wisdom to address the tension of family and congregational dynamics while persevering in their calling.

Contents

• A Note from Brian
• A Note from Cara
• Introduction: What is Faithful Ministry (Brian)

Part 1: The Pastor’s Heart: “It’s Not You – It’s Me”

• 1) The Problem (Brian)
• 2) The Solution (Brian)
• Reflection: Signs of Grace in Ministry (Jim Savastio)

Part 2: The Pastor’s Wife: “I Don’t Recall Saying ‘I Do’ To This!” 

• 3) The Struggle (Cara)
• 4) Caring for Your Wife (Brian)
• Reflection: Keeping Your Marriage Strong (Cathi Johnson)

Part 3: The Pastor’s Children: “Daddy, Can’t You Stay Home Tonight?”

• 5) Shepherding Individually (Brian)
• 6) Shepherding Together (Brian)
• 7) Shepherding Looking Forward (Brian)
• Reflection: Thoughts from a PK (“Pastor’s Kid”)

Conclusion: Faithful to Family, Fruitful in Ministry (Brian)

Afterword: Confession of a Pastor’s Wife (Cara)

Appendix 1: My Battle with Depression (Cara)

Appendix 2: Before Becoming a Pastor (Brian)