What are St Luke’s Reflective Practice Groups?
- Our Reflective Practice Groups (RPGs) are small groups where clergy receive pastoral supervision with a professional facilitator who is independent of the diocese.
- Within this setting clergy are able to explore their experience of ministry, develop self-awareness, gain insight into their relationships, and grow in faith.
- RPGs promote best practice and enhance clergy wellbeing.
As a new incumbent, having help to think about boundaries and my own wellbeing, as well as tackling my job efficiently and effectively, was brilliant.Group member
- Prior to commencing, clergy are invited to a taster and confirm their commitment to prioritising attendance and engagement with the group.
- The groups consist of 5-7 clergy, drawn where possible from different deaneries who work together for two years.
- The group meets for two hours, ten times a year.
I’m feeling valued by the diocese for allowing this time and facility.Group member
- These groups are confidential meetings which enable clergy to share and discuss issues.
- The RPG is a closed group, led by a professional facilitator, whose role is to promote in-depth reflection and discussion on all aspects of participants’ ministry and life.
- The facilitator is appointed by St Luke’s and not by the diocese.
- What happens in the group is entirely confidential to that group and is not relayed to the diocese.
- RPGs’ objectives include developing clergy’s skills which improve their emotional wellbeing and reduce stress. These include:
- boundary setting
- sustaining creative relationships
- managing conflict
Can my diocese run St Luke’s Reflective Practice Groups?
- RPGs are available to any diocese which wishes to run them.
- Dioceses are invited to contact St Luke’s to set up RPGs.
Challenge has been possible without it becoming personal.Group member
For more information