Expert: Pastor Don Carpenter - 11/10/2003

Question
If there are two pastors (co pastoring) not one is senior and someone confides in only one of the pastors does that pastor keep information shared with them only with themselves or do they share this information with the other pastor?  Help!  Any and all information would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Sharon,

THank you for that question.  This is a matter of policy and some churches differ on how things like that are done.  I worked for some time in a secular mental health counseling facility, and we kept strict confidence, within the firm.  But we did share information among staff members.  One thing that can happen is that clients, or church members could share different facts with different leaders and "split" them, manipulating the results of the counseling.  For that reason, I fully support an open relationship with all pastoral staff about an individual that is receiving help.  Now, mind you, I believe in strict confidence outside of that professional clergy relationship, but I believe an open comunication is wise for staff members.  

As I have said, check the policy of your particular church to know what they do. I hope that I have helped.

In Christ,
Pastor Don