Shepherding and Soul Care: The Ministry Behind the Ministry

Is your team burned out by doing ministry for people instead of with people? In this episode, Hunter Melton sits down with pastors John Joseph and Garrett Gregory to talk about one of the most sacred, often unseen parts of ministry—shepherding. They unpack what it really means to care for souls, build sustainable systems of care, and walk with people through grief and growth. From navigating hospital visits to avoiding ministry burnout, this episode offers honest stories, biblical grounding, and practical rhythms that help pastors stay rooted in Christ while leading others. If you're a ministry leader who’s tired, stretched, or asking how to care for your people without losing yourself, this conversation is for you. Episode Guests: Hunter Melton: Campus & Teaching Pastor, The Church at Woodbine John Joseph: Campus & Teaching Pastor, The Church at Station Hill Garrett Gregory: Care & Campus Pastor, Brentwood Baptist Timestamps: 00:00 – Why shepherding matters more than ever 03:30 – What God is doing at each campus 09:00 – What does it really mean to shepherd people? 15:00 – Systems vs. single-mindedness in pastoral care 21:30 – Building teams that multiply care 27:00 – When to delegate and when to step in 35:00 – How to walk with people through suffering 45:00 – What not to say in a crisis 50:00 – Helping your staff avoid burnout 56:00 – Why pastors need small groups too 1:02:00 – Anchoring your soul in Christ while leading others 1:08:00 – Final encouragements for weary leaders Resources Mentioned: Valley of Vision (Puritan Prayers) The Bruised Reed by Richard Sibbes The Trellis and the Vine by Colin Marshall & Tony Payne CareLife (Brentwood Baptist’s care case system) Deuteronomy 29:29 1 Peter 5 Psalm 23 Mark 1: Jesus’ rhythm of abiding and ministry Elevate Church Conference | September 9, 2025 Join us for the Elevate Church Conference at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville, TN. Learn from seasoned church leaders, grow your ministry team, and gain practical tools for your church’s next chapter. Register now at elevatechurchconference.com