Life of Leaders

In 2006, Criterion joined forces with Memphis Le Bonheur Healthcare and Rev. Dr. Gary Gunderson to help them develop Life of Leaders, a faith-centered executive health program that integrates the best of an executive physical with a positive framework for self-care, spiritual nourishment, and fellowship.

Because they are oriented towards help and service (of God, community, of congregation), many values-led leaders - such as clergy - neglect self-care in order to care for others. In addition, with rising health care costs and increasing demands on their time, many pass on annual physicals and other services and activities that could improve their health.  Medical studies of various denominations have shown that clergy are particularly vulnerable to diabetes, depression, hypertension, gastrointestinal distress and heart disease.

With deep roots in helping churches and church bodies align mission and actions in the world, Criterion has been working in the field of clergy health since its inception, consulting to church bodies, pension boards, foundations and social service agencies. In the past, Joy Anderson worked with The General Board of Pensions and Health of the United Methodist Church on their vision of addressing Health as Wholeness in Mission. She and Rev. Dr. Gunderson collaborated on a number of significant scholarship and leadership initiatives.  

Over the years, Criterion has transitioned through several roles in Life of Leaders - from consultant to partner to special advisor – often focusing our work on venture development, scale, and replication.

Criterion's commitment to clergy health is steadfast and we continue to work with clients in this important field.