The Pastor's Soul: The Call and Care of an Undershepherd

Order this book

"The Soul of the Pastor" is not just a book about leadership or ministry; it is an urgent call to recover a biblical vision of the pastoral calling and a compassionate look at the spiritual, emotional, and physical care of the minister.

Written by Brian Croft and Jim Savastio—two pastors with extensive experience in local church ministry and leader training—this book emerges as a response to a critical need: many ministers are suffering from burnout, exhaustion, discouragement, and even spiritual failures, not due to a lack of doctrinal knowledge, but because of self-neglect under the pressures of ministry.

The authors begin by establishing what it means to be called by God to pastoral ministry. It is not simply about feeling a personal inclination or having strong communication skills, but about recognizing a divine calling confirmed by the church and supported by a life marked by integrity, spiritual gifts, and spiritual fruit.

Then they move into one of today’s most urgent topics: the care of the pastor’s soul. Many ministers carry responsibilities, expectations, and inner struggles alone, without receiving spiritual or emotional support. This book invites both pastors and their congregations to reflect on how to keep the heart of the minister healthy—not only for his own well-being, but for the glory of God and the spiritual health of the entire church.

Among the key topics addressed:

• How can someone discern whether they are called to pastoral ministry?
• What does spiritual care of the pastor’s soul involve?
• How to balance ministry with personal and family life?
• Why is it important to pray for pastors and support them in love?
• How can the body of Christ help its leaders avoid burnout?

This book is not only a valuable tool for pastors and church leaders, but also a recommended read for every church member who desires to better understand how to support those who watch over their souls (Hebrews 13:17).

As pastors who have endorsed this work affirm, The Soul of the Pastor should be read at least once a year—as a spiritual health checkup that helps keep the minister firm in his calling.