What does it take to stay the course in ministry?
In a world where burnout, disillusionment, and systemic challenges often derail even the most committed leaders, Twelve Lessons on Stickability in Ministry offers wisdom for flourishing over the long haul. Drawing on more than three thousand years of combined experience from over a hundred seasoned practitioners, Sally Nash explores the practices, relationships, and theological insights that sustain a lifetime of service.
Through twelve practical lessons – rooted in research and enriched by real-life stories – this book addresses the realities of ministry: identity and vocation, spiritual rhythms, boundaries, vulnerability, lament, resilience, and lifelong learning. Each chapter invites reflection and offers tools for navigating the joys and struggles of leadership with integrity and hope.
Whether you are starting out, facing challenges, mentoring others, or seeking renewal, this is a resource to return to again and again. Honest, compassionate, and deeply practical, it reminds us that stickability is not about gritting our teeth – it’s about cultivating habits and communities that enable us to thrive.
“This book is a lifeline for those who wonder if they can keep going – and a guide for those who want to finish well.”
Sally Nash's Twelve Lessons on Stickability in Ministry is a book to sit with: to savour, to reflect on, to come back to. Her gentle mix of practical wisdom and grace guides the reader through a journey of self-awareness and reflection that all in ministry would benefit from – a must read!
Isabelle Hamley, Principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge
This book, by the experienced theologian and priest Sally Nash, is comprehensive in its much-needed wisdom and insight on the topic of resilience in ministry. There is practical application here as well as deep reflection and theoretical grounding. Its rich bibliography will be of great benefit to readers wanting to follow up these important subjects. One impressive aspect of the writing is the distinct voice of the varied contributors to the project, sharing invaluable advice that will be helpful to both new ministers and those approaching retirement alike. If you want to know how to survive and flourish in ministry, then this is the book for you!
Manon Ceridwen James, Dean of Bangor
Sally Nash offers abundant wisdom from a lifetime of teaching, mentoring and spiritual care for others, and invites us into a profound conversation between a host of friends, sharing honestly and vulnerably their most hard-won lessons. This book is a vital knapsack for the journey of vocation, whatever form that might take for us.
Al Barrett, Rector, Hodge Hill Church
Whether you are starting out in Christian ministry or having been serving for many years, Sally's book will be a rich blessing and a worthwhile resource. Her wisdom and understanding are rooted in experience and prayerful reflection and Twelve Lessons on Stickability in Ministry will assist and inspire as you continue in the work to which God has called you.
Michael Volland, Bishop of Birmingham
I love this book. Twelve lessons presented accessibly. Real stories to engage with. Beautiful poetry to ponder. Reflection questions to help consider how this all connects with our being and doing. Something to read and re-read at whatever stage you are on the ministry journey.
Rhona Knight, Chaplain and Spiritual Director
