On Tuesday, a longstanding goal of Witness Ministry was realize when on 1 October 2024, Rev Stephen Pedro of Congregational Witness brought together a diverse group of URCSA ministers at Stillebosh Retreat Farm,for a Heartstyles Leadership Workshop.
Rev. Stephen Pedro, kicked off the day with a (CBS) Contextual reading of Exodus 18, with the focus on leadership and burnout.
Here after the group was introduced to the Heartstyles model by Jessie Orwin. This model focuses on the holistic well-being of people, and especially leaders. Heartstyles is a methodology, used to build the character of leaders, which will enable them to make more effective decisions, enjoy healthier relationships, and lead with authenticity.
The day was round of with a koinonia braai which gave the ministers the opportunity to socialize with each other and to celebrate their diversity. Everyone left Stillebosch Retreat Farm enriched with a deep gratitude and a strong need to, from a healthy character, live as followers of Jesus and the leaders of their congregations. “The Heartstyles Leadership Workshop was an eye-opener for many of us, encouraging reflection on our personal journeys – something we rarely do. It emphasized the importance of our well-being and how our own stories, and traumas, influence our self-perception and ministry. I wholeheartedly recommend Heartstyles to anyone seeking to move beyond the label of a wounded healer and embark on a journey of self-awareness towards inner well-being,” remarked one of the attendees, Rev. Samantha Terhart, about her experience of this workshop.
