Augsburg Fortress

''Every pastor in America needs a copy of this book—STAT! This resource fills a huge gap on seminary bookshelves. Dr. Halaas, a physician who is expert in wellness protocol, also has great understanding of the unique challenges facing clergy today. Suitable for use by individuals or clergy groups, this book provides a wealth of data and suggestions for improving the personal health of America's ministers, who far too often sacrifice their own health and well-being (and that of their family), to serve the pressing needs of others.''
— The Rev. Deborah L. Patterson, Executive Director, International Parish Nurse Resource Center, and author of The Essential Parish Nurse: ABCs for Congregational Health Ministry

''The special needs for clergy wellness are well-documented, and Dr. Halaas provides a comprehensive road map for initiating healthy change. 'The Right Road' can help clergy find the balance needed to strengthen their ministry and their lives.''
— William S. Craddock Jr., Managing Director of CREDO Institute

''The Right Road is like 'mapquest' for anyone who wants to be a healthy leader enhancing lives. If you are thinking about having a more balanced lifestyle this provides great directions for you. If you are headed in the wrong direction and need to make a U-turn, Dr. Halaas provides a prescription for you. If you are making plans to begin a healthier life, you'll find helpful tips and suggestions. If you are well on your way to a healthier life you'll find inspiration (along with your perspiration) to 'fight the good fight, to run the race.'''
— The Rev. Ronald T. Glusenkamp, ELCA Board of Pensions, Vice President-Customer Outreach, author of Sign for These Times (CPH)

''Gwen Wagstrom Halaas' experiences as a family physician and wife of a pastor have given her a keen understanding of the many physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges facing today's clergy. She understands how the demands of ministry make it difficult for clergy to take proper care of themselves. In The Right Road Dr. Halaas offers valuable advice that clergy can use to enhance their own health and to lead their congregations in ministries of health and healing. This is a book that should be read by every pastor and by congregational leaders concerned about the health and well-being of clergy.''
— W. Daniel Hale, co-author of Healing Bodies and Souls: A Practical Guide for Congregations

''The Right Road is the right book at the right time.''

The Right Road is a detailed guide for the entire religious community to focus on how to live and die well. Through its workbook approach of questions, and simple lists and tools, The Right Road can be a resource for congregations to practice a more healthful way of caring...for each other, their pastor and themselves.''

''An important resource for every congregation interested in enhancing and supporting their pastor and each other to a healthier road of life.''
— Barbara A. Boigegrain, General Secretary, United Methodist Church General Board of Pension and Health Benefits

Preface

1. Introduction
   The Story of RL
   The Wholeness Wheel
   What Is Health?
   The Importance of Self-Care
   Sarah's Story: RL's Wife
    
2. Physical Well-Being: A Healthy Body
   Keep Your Body Physically Active
   Feed Your Body Healthy Food
   Give Your Body Adequate Rest
   Have a Healthy Sex Life
    
3. Emotional Well-Being: A Healthy Mind
   Recognize Stress and Develop Coping Skills
   Susan, RL's Administrive Assistant
   Welcome Change and Learn How to Adapt
   Learn How to Prevent Depression and Recognize Its Signs
   Work at Being Happy
   Greg: Assistant to the Bishop
    
4. Intellectual Well-Being
   Exercise Your Mind
   Lifelong Learning
   Daughter Deborah
    
5. Social/Interpersonal Well-Being: High-Quality Personal Relationships
   Love God
   Love Yourself
   Love Your Family
   Love Your Neighbors
   Mutual Ministry
    
6. Vocational Well-Being
   Seek Fulfillment in Your Vocation
   Be Confident in Your Calling
   Leave a Legacy
   Manage Time Well
   Understand the Purpose of Work
   Grow in Your Profession
   Update on RL
    
7. Spiritual Well-Being
   Be Knowledgeable about Your Faith
   Practice Your Faith
   Sabbath
    
8. Living Well
   Prepare for Illness
   Manage Your Illness
   Dying Well
   A Prescription for Your Health
   Ten Best Practices for Health and Wellness
   RL's Sabbatical
    
9. Health and Wellness in Public Ministry
   Self-Care: Pastor or Physician
   Self-Care
   Healthy Habits
   Wellness Planning or Activities
   Boundaries
   Lifelong Learning
   Sabbatical
   Spiritual Growth
   Sabbath
   Pastor Mary
    
10. The Gift of Ministry
    Qualities of Good Ministers
    Congregational Expectations of Pastors
    Change and Challenges
    Leadership Style
    The Gift of Ministry

Appendix: Wellness Guide
Notes
Fur Further Reading