.png)
MINISTERS CONVOCATION
Where are the safe spaces for pastors to thrive, extending grace and support in their struggles to defuse the misconception that they must suffer alone to uphold a fragile veneer of spiritual perfection?
There is a stigma surrounding pastors with mental health concerns. A lot will never admit to themselves, their spouses, children, or even the world around them that they at times feel overwhelmed. Unfortunately, pastors are the least likely to seek help due to the fear that their ability as spiritual leaders will be called into question.
Pastors are called to be leaders, champions of ministry, and uphold biblical truth, however, it can be difficult to maintain the full responsibilities that the church demands. Often being held to standards of biblical perfection that the majority of believers cannot meet, what causes a belief that in taking on religious leadership, humanity is forfeited and grace no longer needed? The clergical calling is an emotionally demanding one and can cause a strain on mental health. Yet, Pastors, must not be afraid to seek counsel and learn how and when to prioritize mental wellness.
C. Guy Robinson is a bishop, pastor, and musician with decades of experience in serving the kingdom of God. He serves as pastor of the Tabernacle of the Lord Church in Baltimore, Maryland. He also serves as Maryland State Bishop in the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship. As a composer, his music has been recorded by numerous gospel music artists, including the Edwin Hawkins Music and Arts Seminar Mass Choir, Bishop T. D. Jakes and the Potter's House Choir, the Wilmington-Chester Mass Choir, the Gospel Music Workshop's Women of Worship, the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship's Daughters of the Promise Choir, and Eric Waddell and the Abundant Life Singers. Bishop Robinson has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in music (piano) from Morgan State University, a Master of Divinity degree from Howard University, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in marriage and family counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He also serves as an adjunct professor/lecturer in the School of Social Work at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, specializing in critical analysis of the impact of spirituality and religious disciplines in the helping professions and upon social constructs. Bishop Robinson and his wife Sandra are the parents of four children: Candice, Cameron, Sydney, and Lauryn.
