We understand the profound isolation that can accompany ministry leadership. That's why Barnabas & Co. has dedicated shepherds and spiritual directors to walk alongside leaders. Our companions don't dictate your path; instead, they offer encouragement, wisdom, and accountability in a safe space. This support fosters authentic conversation, spiritual reflection, and personal growth.
We understand the profound isolation that can accompany ministry leadership. That's why Barnabas & Co. has dedicated shepherds and spiritual directors to walk alongside leaders. Our companions don’t dictate your path; instead, they offer encouragement, wisdom, and accountability in a safe space. This support fosters authentic conversation, spiritual reflection, and personal growth.
Ministry is profoundly rewarding, yet often isolating. At Barnabas & Co., our shepherds offer a pastoral expression of support for Asian American faith leaders. We provide soul care through genuine connection, offering presence, perspective, and prayer for those navigating leadership's burdens. Our aim is to companion leaders toward flourishing, fruitfulness, and faithfulness, distinctly different from coaching or consulting.
Regular check-ins with seasoned ministry shepherds
Prayerful, compassionate conversations rooted in shared ministry experience
A safe space to be heard, to process, and be cared for
Personal support through seasons of discouragement, transition, or pain
Healthy and sustainable leadership begins with a well-tended soul. Our trained spiritual directors at Barnabas & Co. offer a safe and sacred space for pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders to engage with the Holy Spirit, discern God's presence, and nurture a deeper walk with Christ. In this unhurried, reflective setting, come as you are and freely explore whatever is stirring in your heart—processing your connection with God, emotions, or life's questions—whether in seasons of transition, burnout, dryness, or simply desiring greater intimacy. Spiritual direction provides this gentle space. Leave more rooted, renewed, and realigned.
One-on-one virtual spiritual direction sessions
Christ-centered, contemplative guidance
A space to process questions, doubts, and difficult seasons
Culturally attuned support for Asian American faith leaders
A B&C Companion walked me through one of my most crucial moments in life. At a time of pain, confusion, and burnout, he provided compassion, validation, and guidance to navigate such a season. Conversations with him always brought encouragement, clarity, and strength. For me, this B&C ministry came to me as a tangible presence of Christ when I didn’t have any stability or mental capacity to experience Christ on my own.
-S.L
CEO — FRANCO®
My monthly Zoom meetings with a B&C Companion have been indispensable. He helped me to rewrite my pains and disappointments in ministry through the eyes of the Father, who is lovingly disciplining and shaping me. There is simply no substitute for a pastor to talk to another pastor who has been through the trenches and able to offer God’s sovereign hope and perspective.
-D.K.
CEO — FRANCO®
A B&C Companion walked with me through various challenges and periods of growth as a first-year pastor. She has been one of my greatest sources of support, encouragement, and accountability as I've been learning to navigate this role. I am humbled by her patience, incredibly grateful for her consistency and compassion, and I appreciate the gentle wisdom and insights she shares.
-S.C.
CEO — FRANCO®
Meeting with a B&C Companion couldn’t have come at a better time. I was going through the most difficult season of doing ministry that I’ve ever experienced. I’m grateful for the safe space he provided that I can be honest and vulnerable. His care and wisdom have helped me so much. I can’t imagine what this season would be like without him walking with me.
-A.P.
CEO — FRANCO®
6.58 million
Out of the 19.3 million Asian Americans living in America today, over a ⅓ of them (34%) identify as Christians
10,000+
It is also estimated that there are 10,000+ Asian American local churches in the US
200+
And over 200+ para-church ministries specifically focused on serving Asian American Christians
FAQ
Answers to your questions
How is spiritual direction different from shepherding?
While both shepherds and spiritual directors offer soul care, they serve different needs. Shepherds provide relational support through the challenges of ministry leadership, offering pastoral care, wise counsel, and encouragement from seasoned ministry experience. Spiritual directors focus more specifically on your relationship with God, providing a safe space for you to process your connection with God, emotions you’re holding, or questions that are coming up for you.
How often do I meet with my shepherd or spiritual director?
A regular rhythm of meeting with a shepherd or spiritual director is generally once-a-month for a 50-minute session.
How much does it cost?
While our cohorts are offered at minimal cost thanks to our partners, we do ask for an honorarium for the personal care you receive from one of our companioning leaders (shepherds and spiritual directors). Our honorarium rate is $75 per session, which helps support the ongoing ministry of our companions.
Is financial assistance available?
If you are currently between positions or experiencing financial hardship, please speak directly with your soul care provider to explore what options may be available. We believe that financial circumstances should never be a barrier to receiving the spiritual care and support you need.
How can I learn more?
Our Sacred Companions offer a complimentary 20-minute consultation call where you can learn more, ask questions, and determine if it's a good fit for you. To get started, click the "Schedule your free consultation" button above and complete the "Let's Connect" form. One of our Companions will contact you within 1-2 days to schedule your call and discuss next steps.
“We also need guides: spiritual friends, a spiritual director, or a spiritual accountability group that can function for us as a safe place to bear our souls.”
— Henri Nouwen, Spiritual Direction: Wisdom for the Long Walk of Faith
