By David Baik + UBF Institute
Over the past several weeks, the Pan-Africa Cohort completed a five-session course titled “Self-Care at the Core of Pastoral Care” with Pastor David Baik. The course was inspired by the book Emotional Intelligence for Religious Leaders by John Lee West, Roy Oswald, and Nadyne Guzmán.
Eleven PAC members, most of whom are chapter directors from various African countries, faithfully participated and contributed with remarkable enthusiasm. Despite occasional internet issues and a seven-hour time difference, the sessions remained lively and meaningful.
Throughout the course, participants expressed deep appreciation for learning how emotional intelligence supports effective ministry. Many shared that they wished they had understood earlier the importance of self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and organizational awareness in both their personal spiritual journeys and their leadership roles. As we discussed, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23), and the group strongly resonated with the truth that emotional care is spiritual care.
The course fostered honest reflection, renewed motivation, and a stronger commitment among the leaders to cultivate emotional maturity as a spiritual discipline. Their engagement confirmed that emotional intelligence not only strengthens pastoral care but also helps build healthier communities and sustain long-term ministry. Overall, the sessions were uplifting, encouraging, and spiritually enriching for everyone involved.
PAC will hold a two-day (seven-session) in-person seminar on ecclesiology immediately after the African Directors Conference in Nairobi, Kenya, in December 2025. Thank you for your continued prayers for our African leaders.