Sexual Ethics In Pastoral Ministry

In the book “Sexual Ethics in Pastoral Ministry,” a lot of useful information is given on sexual conduct of a minister. One of the topics highlighted throughout the book is how to avoid sexual misconduct as a minister. The way this section is covered is very thorough and clear. This essay will highlight some of the key points mentioned throughout the book on how to avoid sexual misconduct in ministry.
When it comes to ministering to the congregation, it is important that the people in the congregation are assured that their minister has a high moral and ethical code. If this view is compromised, then the ministry itself is also compromised. One of the key moral and ethical concerns, surrounds the ministers sexual conduct. Sexual misconduct …show more content…
Sexual misconduct takes many forms, but all forms fall under two categories: consensual and nonconsensual. Sexual behavior that is consensual can also be unethical. Dr. Rico, in the book “Sexual Ethics in Pastoral Ministries,” highlights some examples of sexual misconduct. Sexual misconduct encompasses these actions. “Touching of sexual areas of the body accidental and non-accidental, sexually playful aggression that makes the other individual uncomfortable, unnecessarily long hugs when a brief one is appropriate or kissing of the lips when a kiss on the cheek would be appropriate…. Inappropriate gift from the minister such as lingerie, and finally sexual intercourse with congregant.” these misconducts do take place in churches meeting, offices and home …show more content…
The first and best step when avoiding sexual misconduct is for the minister to strengthen their sexual relationship with their spouse. The cause for sexual misconduct normally is the lack of a certain necessity in a relationship. Most of the misconduct is the result of a dying marriage or a dysfunctional one. The relationship with the spouse is always the first thing to be examined when one is caught up in the process towards sexual misconduct. Spending large amounts of time together, may be a cause of feeling sexually attracted to a certain individual. This can be the cause of working with a secretary, counselee, or staff member that their regular contact sparked a romantic relationship. These situations happen because of the opportunity granted from long and late hours of work. This time spent together can also lead to conversation that might be sexually stimulating. Thus leading to a sexual charge to a misconduct. This can be avoided by finding the time dedicated for the minister 's spouse. This time will be used to unwind and build the relationship by talking freely about the marriage. This time together and building that bond may be the most important tool to avoiding sexual