GuideStone, Dilbeck encourage Korean pastors at annual fellowship meeting

DALLAS

Pastors attending the Korean Council (Korean Baptist Fellowship) gathering during the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting in Dallas left renewed and encouraged following a message from GuideStone^® President Hance Dilbeck.

Preaching from 1 Timothy 4:16, Dilbeck urged pastors to “pay attention to yourself,” reminding them that their calling is among the highest and most important work. His message emphasized the importance of self-care in ministry, especially for those called to serve for the long haul.

“Many Korean pastors are burdened with relentless schedules—from early morning prayer services to late-night meetings,” said Dr. James Kang, executive director of the Korean Council. “As a result, many find themselves on the brink of burnout. Dr. Dilbeck’s message, 'Pay attention to yourself,' deeply resonated with many of us. During the time of prayer following his message, we witnessed the healing touch of Jesus gently ministering to many pastors and their wives.”

The message was delivered during the Korean Council’s annual meeting, held in conjunction with the SBC Annual Meeting. The event also highlighted GuideStone’s support of the Council’s new initiative to help associate pastors begin their ministries with financial and spiritual strength.

“What made this moment so meaningful was not just the message, but the way GuideStone demonstrated its commitment to these pastors,” said Hoon Im, Affinity Group Relationship Manager at GuideStone. “Our work together shows that we’re not only speaking encouragement—we’re backing it up with action.”

Dilbeck said he was honored to share with the pastors and grateful for the opportunity to serve.

“Our heart at GuideStone is to walk alongside those who serve the Lord,” he said. “We want to help them start well, serve well, and finish well. It was a joy to see how the Lord used this moment to bring encouragement and renewal to these faithful servants.”

For more information about GuideStone and its ministry to pastors and churches, visit GuideStone.org/resources.