Soul Tending

• A few years ago, I was privileged to attend the graduation ceremony for a class of Navy SEALs. One statement made by the Commanding Officer in his address to the class was: “Ninety percent of the situations you face, you will not have trained for.” The CO’s statement implied, “We train you in such a way that, whatever you face, you will be ready to handle it.” This is what comes to mind as I interact with the principles and process found in Soul Tending. They provide a framework for thriving amid pain and chaos—both as an individual and in community. Though I wish these principles had been taught when we were beginning our cross-cultural ministry, it is because of those experiences of life and ministry that this book carries much greater weight for me now. I highly recommend this book!

  — Steve Coffey, Global Ministries Pastor

• Virgil Tanner’s Soul Tending is more than a how-to guide to live well and lead wisely. He stresses that a well-rounded personal development plan helps global workers thrive. But what makes this book different is it also considers the value of community at the same time. Tanner's emphasis on “whole-souled” service does not stand alone. That, along with a growing self-awareness, develops more proactive and less reactive leaders. Tanner encourages readers to lead with a towel over their shoulder. He challenges us to truly see one another which promotes a flourishing community. After one read-through, I wanted to go through it again with others. By using the practices in this book, we can become healthier individuals and a more robust community

  — Sue Eenigenburg, Author, mentor, global worker

• It’s rare you find a book that draws from orthodox theology and sound research and then makes it readily accessible in practical, concrete steps. I’ve been leading teams for over twenty years, and although I’ve employed a few of these concepts at different times, this book gives me a comprehensive and easy-to-follow system for shepherding myself and my staff in loving, straightforward ways. Read this book and enjoy a healthier, more anti-fragile you—alongside those you lead and serve.

  — Alex Galloway, PsyD, SentWell

• This book is not just for mission leaders or cross-cultural workers—it’s for anyone who seeks to lead as Jesus led, with a heart to cultivate human flourishing and a willingness to walk with others toward God’s greater purpose. Soul Tending is both a theological gift and a practical manual for leaders in every sphere. I cannot recommend it highly enough for those seeking to lead well for the glory of God.

  — Rev. Brent McHugh, CEO, Christar International

• Multiple books have been written on the how and why of wholistic care and formative growth steps for cross-cultural workers. What sets this book apart is the deeper understanding of how workers can healthfully thrive as they foster glory. This much -needed emphasis is masterfully addressed by someone who has done that himself in the crucible of ministry. As a seasoned member care professional, Virgil Tanner brings practical, hands-on models that can be readily implemented no matter where one serves. 

  — Marvin J. Newell, DMiss, Ambassador in Large, Missio NexusAuthor, A Third of Us: What it Takes to Reach the Unreached

• Virgil’s vision in this book has the power to ignite transformation in people and in communities around the world. Over the past few years, as our organization has allowed these ideas to shape the DNA of who we are together, we’ve seen our culture enriched, our members’ resilience deepened, and beautiful fruit emerge—even in the face of pressure and adversity. This is a critical read for anyone seeking to make disciples in hard places—where external stress threatens to unravel the very work they’ve been called to.

  — Luke Perkins, President, Crossworld

• Chaos, relational stress, and the myriad effects of sin too often derail cross-cultural Kingdom workers or make them ineffective or unproductive in the work to which God has called them. In this wonderful book—written especially for missionaries and those who lead and send them, but also for any Christian who wants to be effective in their calling—Virgil Tanner lays out a strong argument for intentionally prioritizing movement in the direction of soul thriving. He offers helpful tools and strategies for regularly assessing how fit our souls are—spiritually, physically, cognitively, emotionally and relationally—and for moving toward flourishing in each of these areas for the glory of God and the good of the church, without becoming self-obsessed. He also provides many real-world examples from his extensive experience as a leader, spiritual director, and mission strategist that help guide us down the path to joyful, integrated service. I will be highly recommending this book to everyone I know who is passionate about the Great Commission.

  — Steve Stonehouse, MD

Author

• Virgil Tanner