The Triple ‘A’ Formula for Flourishing Ministry Families: An Analysis of the Ministry/Family Journey of Credentialed Ministers and their Spouses within the Australian Christian Churches

Suffering in Silence: Examining the Silent Suffering of the Wives of Christian Clergy, Advocating for their Voice and Value

“…As a result of this research, the researcher developed the Triple “A” Theory of Ministry Function and Family Fulfilment, which demonstrates ministers and their spouses that enter the ministry with a measured (A)spiration; have a resolute (A)wareness of the advantages and adversities associated with the ministry/family journey; and give continual (A)ttention to their family by responding intentionally, spiritually, and protectively, while drawing on sustaining resources and establishing reliable support structures; will more likely experience satisfaction in regard to the spiritual wellbeing of their family, as they function in their ministry calling (Potts, 2018). One of the outcomes of this research was the discovery of the impact that ministry involvement had upon the ministers’ wives.…”

“…An investigation was conducted on the perceptions of ACC (formerly the Assemblies of God in Australia) ministers and their spouses regarding the impact of the ministers’ roles on their family lives (Potts, 2018). This research was built on family stress theory in the light of the ongoing stressors experienced as a result of the ministry vocation.…”

“…An analysis of these two groups drew several conclusions throughout the research. The overall profile data was utilized in the development of the Triple “A” Theory for a PhD dissertation (Potts, 2018). Unfortunately, space in this article does not allow for further expansion of these findings.…”

“…The author’s PhD dissertation (2018) investigated how ministers and their spouses within the Australian Christian Churches (ACC) perceive that their involvement in ministry affects their family lives. The specific research question investigated was: “What components contribute toward the spiritual wellbeing of the minister’s family, while fulfilling the unique responsibilities associated with the ministry vocation?” The result was the development of “The Triple ‘A’ Theory of Ministry Function and Family Fulfilment” (Potts, 2018), which is expanded further in the results section. An important component of this research revealed that many ministers’ wives tend to silently suffer alongside their clergy husbands due to their desire to support their husbands’ ministry vocation.…”

Influence of Occupational Stress on Quality Family Relationship among Clergy: A Case of Christ is the Answer Ministries, Kenya

“…It involves having positive relationships with one another, communicating effectively, showing respect, and understanding, and supporting each other in times of need. Potts (2020) further postulated that family contentment is essential for creating a healthy and supportive home environment, where children can grow and develop to their full potential, and where adults can find comfort, solace, and joy. It helps to promote a sense of belonging and identity and provides a foundation for building strong social connections and support networks (Clarke, 2021).…”