Cultivating Curiosity: A Pastoral Tool for Addressing Anxiety in the Church

Curiosity can be one of the most powerful tools pastors use when addressing anxiety and mental health in their congregations. Instead of rushing to fix or explain, curiosity creates space for listening, empathy, and healing. This article explores why curiosity matters, what research shows about its impact, and how pastors can cultivate it in ministry.

Anxiety in the Church Today

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges in the U.S. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 3 adults experiences an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. For pastors, this reality is not abstract. It shows up in counseling sessions, prayer requests, and even in their own private lives.

At the same time, anxiety can be difficult to talk about openly in church settings. Congregants may fear being judged or told their faith is weak. This is where curiosity, rather than quick fixes, can transform ministry.

The Power of Curiosity in Pastoral Care

Curiosity is more than asking questions. It is a posture of genuine care—leaning in to listen instead of rushing to explain. When pastors model curiosity, they:

• Validate people’s experiences without judgment.
• Help uncover underlying emotional or spiritual wounds.
• Build trust that encourages deeper sharing.

Research in counseling shows that curiosity-driven questions can reduce defensiveness and open people to reflection. For those living with anxiety, curiosity helps them explore what their emotions are signaling rather than simply suppressing them.

Scripture also points us toward this approach. In Luke 24, when Jesus met the disciples on the road to Emmaus, He began with a question: “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” (Luke 24:17). His curiosity opened the door for their grief and confusion to come into the light.

Harmful vs Helpful Approaches

When it comes to pastoral conversations about anxiety, the difference between harmful and helpful responses often lies in curiosity:

Harmful:

• Offering quick Bible verses as fixes without listening.
  
  
• Minimizing someone’s feelings with phrases like “just pray more” or “trust God more.”
  
  

Helpful:

• Asking gentle, open-ended questions: “When did you first notice these feelings?”
  
  
• Listening without rushing to fill the silence.
  
  
• Affirming that experiencing anxiety does not mean someone is less faithful.
  
  

3 Practical Ways Pastors Can Use Curiosity

Here are three ways pastors can practice curiosity as a tool for ministry:

1. Ask before advising. Slow down the impulse to fix. Begin with questions like, “Can you tell me more about what that feels like?”
   
   
2. Create safe spaces. Model curiosity in small groups by encouraging honest conversations about emotions and struggles.
   
   
3. Stay curious about yourself. Pay attention to your own patterns of stress and anxiety. Self-awareness helps you shepherd others with authenticity.

Supporting Caregivers and Families

Curiosity also extends to caregivers and families who support those with anxiety. Instead of offering advice from a distance, ask caregivers what support they need. Sometimes, simply being heard can lift a burden they’ve been carrying silently.

Join Us at the Loneliness Summit

Curiosity is just one of many tools pastors can use to support mental health in the church. At the Thrive & Cultivate Loneliness Summit, you’ll gain more insights and practical strategies from experts in theology, psychology, and ministry. Register today and equip yourself to walk alongside your people with wisdom and compassion.

FAQ

What does curiosity look like in a pastoral counseling setting?
It looks like slowing down, asking open-ended questions, and allowing space for silence rather than rushing to solutions.

Is curiosity enough, or should pastors refer people to professionals?
Curiosity is a pastoral tool, not a replacement for professional counseling. Pastors should encourage congregants to seek licensed help when needed, while continuing to offer spiritual support.

How can I introduce curiosity in my preaching?
In sermons, model curiosity by asking reflective questions of Scripture and inviting the congregation to wrestle with God’s Word in ways that connect to their daily lives.

Final Reflection

As shepherds of God’s people, pastors are called to lead with compassion, wisdom, and humility. Curiosity reflects the heart of Christ, who asked questions to draw people closer to Him. By practicing curiosity in conversations about anxiety, you not only help others find peace but also point them back to the One who said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).