Lydia P Istomina

Bullying is the New Stoning Lydia P Istomina

United Methodist pastors often serve under attacks from bullying congregations that affect their health, performance, and confidence in their calling. It is important to explore the phenomenon of pastor bullying in comparison with and in contrast to workplace bullying by examining sociological and scientific findings. This thesis seeks to determine the cause of bullying behavior by examining Walter Wink's theology of evil, the theology of systemic sin, and to explore the dynamic between ecclesiology, personal responsibility, and collective leadership. Further, the author will examine Fr. Richard Rohr's spirituality of the second half of life and Barbara Brown Taylor's alternative to full solar spirituality to help United Methodist pastors heal and forgive. The sin of pastor bullying is systemic. Therefore, United Methodist pastors are encouraged to make a personal commitment to working collectively with laity on changing the mindsets from "I" to "WE," helping congregations grieve individually and as a community. Thus both pastor and congregation could confess any known sins that were committed individually and collectively to be able to begin growing in personal and social holiness through practicing Wesley's Do No Harm principle through love and forgiveness.