There are various approaches to confidentiality among Protestant ministers. It is a controversial subject. In my early years in ministry, I maintained total confidentiality -- even my (late) wife didn't receive confidential information. In fact, sometimes people assumed that she knew things where she didn't. However, this changed. I now include my wife -- for the sake of personal intimacy. On the other hand, some ministers will reveal confidential information -- in particular where they feel that this is for the cleansing of the Church, or should be reported to the authorities. OBSERVATION: Today, I make some exceptions, fairly much on similar lines:
• Where something is beginning to affect the whole Church• Where one is dealing with gossip or rumour• Where the issue affects my own self• Where a crime should be reported (which is not every case)• Where an issue appears to be in the public interest
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