42% of Pastors Considered Quitting Ministry in the Past Year
Over the past year the number of pastors who have considered quitting ministry has risen to every two in five. Pastors are getting burnt out more so now than ever. Surveys show a whopping 42% have considered quiting in the past 12 months. There are many factors that lead pastors to this daunting consideration. According to a survey done by the Barna Group, stress, loneliness and political division are among the top three.
On the brighter side, many pastors are content in ministry. The top three factors for wanting to say in ministry are that the pastors believe in the value of their ministry, they have a duty to stay and fulfill their calling in ministry and lastly, they are satisfied with their job.
Whether pastors are considering quitting or not, there is still stress and pressure with all the same factors. Stress is a reality in ministry no matter how tough you are. And to avoid the overwhelming sense of burnout, remember to Divert Daily, Withdraw Weekly, and Abandon Annually.
“The resilient leader is one who finishes well. He or she may have many scars at the end of the journey, but there is a great sense of satisfaction in a life lived faithfully in honor to Jesus and in service to others.” Mark A. Searby