An evaluation of supervisees’ perceptions of the benefits and limitations of pastoral/reflective supervision among Christian clergy in the UK

ABSTRACT Clergy from several Christian denominations in the UK were invited to participate in an online survey which explored their experience of pastoral/reflective supervision. The research question was, “How has the practice of pastoral supervision within Christian denominations in the UK been beneficial, and what have been its limitations?” The aims of the research were: to explore what has been helpful to supervisees in the provision of pastoral supervision; and to determine what has not been helpful to supervisees in the provision of pastoral supervision. 173 clergy respondents took part. The data show that pastoral/reflective supervision is mostly beneficial to respondents, and that pastoral/reflective supervision enables clergy to self-perceive feelings of: support; lessening isolation; increased insight into personal process; affirmation of their ministry; and to have a better sense of wellbeing. Some hindrances to effective supervision are identified, and some recommendations for training and denominational support are made.