In this episode, Kristen Humiston shares her journey frombeing a pastor's wife to a therapist and ministry coach. She discusses the trauma of forced termination from ministry, the importance of seeking help, and the challenges faced by ministry families. Kristen emphasizes the need for safesupport systems, building skills and savings, and understanding the church as a system. She also highlights the joys and struggles of her current work in therapy, particularly with pastors' wives, and offers practical advice forthose navigating difficult transitions, experiencing trauma, or advice for supporting women in those times. Kristen also shares several helpful resources available to women and ministry families seeking help.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kristen and Her Ministry Journey

05:29 The Trauma of Forced Termination in Ministry

09:15 Advice for Navigating Difficult Transitions

12:05 Building Identity and Financial Stability in Ministry

16:11 Understanding Church Dynamics and Personal Healing

18:56 Kristen's Current Role as a Therapist and Coach

21:16 Finding Joy in Helping Others Heal

23:47 Recognizing When to Seek Help

29:26 Taking the First Step Towards Healing

31:37 Resources

33:33 Supporting Others in Their Struggles

36:36 Conclusion

Resources mentioned in today's episode:

Pastors' Hope Network - Help for pastors and their families who have experienced forced termination.

Ministry Transitions - Help for ministries or ministry families transitioning.

Not mentioned: Care Givers Forum - A directory for all things ministry workers support resources.Kristen's personal resources:

Contact - The online form you can use to email Kristen directly for help.

Focused Care Retreats - Kristen's ministry for ministry workers looking to address trauma healing needs.

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Listen to "Serving with the Finish Line in Mind," Sarah Johnson's article on serving through hardship.

Listen to "I Have Called You Friends," Wendy McCready's article on friendship in ministry.

Episode 6 of Flowers for the Pastor's Wife, where we get to know Bethany Hardy, one of our writers for Flowers for the PW.

Listen to "What Does All Mean?" Tobi Henschel's article on serving all people.

Listen to "Lessons from My Cat," Lynnette Goebel's article on spending time with God.

Episode 3 of Flowers for the Pastor's Wife, where we get to know Jen Hulbert - author and social media/website manager for Flowers for the PW.

Listen to "Servant of All," our season opening article written by Assistant Director, Marcy Ardis.

Episode 1 of Flowers for the Pastor's Wife, where we get to know Flowers' Director, Wendy McCready.