Last week I had the opportunity to attend the Economics of Ministry Summit at Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Shawnee, Kansas, “where all the women are strong, all the men are good looking, and all the students are above average” (to paraphrase Garrison Keillor). The topic addressed was far from humorous, however. The key question voiced by President Molly Marshall was, “Can ministers and churches afford each other?” Many churches are not supporting theological education as they once did, but theological education is expensive, so students are burdened with debt. At the same time churches are struggling with declining finances but still want full-time ministers but can’t provide appropriate salaries. If churches cannot provide a wage that helps students to pay their indebtedness, can students continue to pursue theological education? If students don’t prepare for ministry, where will churches find competent minister...
Comments from a Christ-follower on things that matter to him