Wellness
Caring for the Whole Church Worker
Equipping individuals and faith communities to thrive, body, mind, and spirit, through growth and renewal.
Serving Those Who Serve
Ministry asks a lot of those who serve it. That’s why the Southeastern District is committed to supporting the wellness of our church workers and their families, not just physically, but spiritually, emotionally, and financially too. Through coaching, resources, and partnership with congregations, we help church workers care for themselves so they can continue to serve well. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s what allows Christ’s love to flow through us to those we’re called to serve.
Rev. Steve Wiechman
Executive Director of Wellness
Rev. Steve Wiechman serves as Executive Director of Wellness for the Southeastern District. Alongside his wife, Jamie, he founded Breathe Life Ministries, walking alongside ministry leaders through coaching, care, and spiritual renewal. Known as a compassionate shepherd and a steady, wise presence, Steve leads our district’s commitment to the wellness of workers, leaders, and mission stations, cultivating spiritual health, emotional resilience, and healthy ministry practices so church workers can serve with joy and faithfulness.
Wellness Coaching for Church Workers
Our health and wellness coaches partner with church workers seeking lasting, self-directed change in spiritual, financial, career, and personal well-being. Through a client-centered process, coaching helps you set and reach goals that reflect your own values and calling.
Explore CoachingFinancial Wellness
Education debt shouldn’t stand in the way of ministry. Our district partners with programs that help lighten that load for rostered church workers.
SED Student Loan Repayment Program
Grants to help rostered church workers, full and part-time, repay college and seminary education loans. Open to all rostered or roster-eligible synodical graduates currently serving in the Southeastern District.
Learn MoreSoldiers of the Cross
Emergency financial support and pastoral care for LCMS church workers facing financial challenges, offered with care and confidentiality. Referrals begin with a conversation with the district president.
Learn MoreLooking for more grant opportunities? Visit our Grants & Support page.
Benefits and Encouragement
Concordia Health Plans
Explore your health, dental, and wellness benefits as a Concordia Plan Services member, including tools to support your physical and financial well-being.
Learn MoreWellness Blog
Read the Wednesday Wellness Blog for practical, inspirational insight on physical, mental, and spiritual health from a community of writers.
Read the BlogMore Wellness Resources
Additional counseling, community, and rest opportunities for church workers and their families.
Counseling Resources
Concordia Plans – My Mental Health
Free behavioral health navigation for Concordia Health Plan members, including sessions, crisis support, and referrals.
Learn MoreBetterHelp – Christian Therapy
Connect online with a licensed therapist who shares your Christian faith through a tailored matching process.
Learn MoreSafe Harbor
Adult, adolescent, and child therapy via video or in-person across nine states, including Virginia and Maryland.
Learn MoreGrace Point Institute for Relational Health
Individual, couple, family, and pastoral counseling from therapists trained in both mental health and theology.
Learn MoreSupport Groups
Koinonia: For Women Married to LCMS Pastors
A virtual support group from Lutheran Family Service offering a safe space for pastors’ wives to share and find encouragement.
RegisterSabbatical Planning
Grace Place (LCEF)
Sponsored by LCEF, offering sabbatical coaching, planning guidelines, funding resources, and a free downloadable guide.
Learn MoreRetreat & Rest
Doxology
Programs and seminars for clergy to reflect on spiritual and emotional health and grow in professional competencies.
Learn MoreEden Above the Sea
A cottage retreat on Hawaii’s Big Island offering rest and renewal for rostered church workers and spouses at no cost.
Learn MoreShepherd’s Canyon
Week-long counseling retreats in Wickenburg, AZ for pastors and ministry workers facing stress, burnout, or conflict.
Learn MoreCamp Linn Haven
A wholesome Christian camp setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, offering cabins and retreat space.
Learn More