Why pastor?

Some weeks, I find myself asking, "Why would anyone want to be a pastor?" Many pastors I know are struggling. They see needs and try to lead their churches to meet those needs, but they run into resistance. They think they understand what their church members expect of their pastor, and suddenly find that they have it all wrong. They go the second and third miles in ministry, but they find it is not enough. Therefore, many pastors of my acquiantance are disappointed and even depressed. They are seeking other places of service or even considering leaving full-time ministry.

Is it any wonder that many of our young adults go to seminary, but boldly declare, "I don't want to serve in a local church!" We have to find ways to help our pastors lead and serve. Maybe then more people will want to be pastors!

Am I just having a bad day?

Comments

Barnabas File said…

Agreed. One of my mentors said, "If you can do anything rather than being a minister and be happy at it, go ahead." I am sure that this sentiment was not original to him, but the truth is that ministry is more than a profession--it is a calling. Those who are called to ministry will do it, no matter who pays the bills.

2:44 PM

Cally said…

This notion of being a pastor goes back to "calling." I have a note card on my desk with two words: Patience and Perseverence. Remember the old saying, "I love the ministry, but it's the people I can't stand." I've been fortunate to have served in good congregations, but every church has its problems. I try not to be one of them.

2:09 PM

Barnabas File said…

In response to Mike Smith's posting, I wonder if anyone is doing this "transitioning" to alternate professions for ministers. At least one pastor of my acquiantance has done this in the past year, but I don't know how much counsel and support was provided to him in this process. It may well be the most healthy thing that a minister can do. In my other life as a campus minister, I suggested to colleagues that they should always have an "exit strategy." Most didn't and still don't.

9:13 PM

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