The Future Church?

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Frankly, I am quite concerned. I am sure you are too.

I picked up a copy of Barna’s most recent ‘State of Pastors’ report based on 2023 research. It alerted me to some startling findings with clear implications for the future of the church.

Many of my regular readers are in later years of full-time ministry. I enjoy hearing from you! You have inspired me with your years of wisdom, stories of conflict, struggle and how you have grown and thrived through the years. These stories have informed my work! And your way of affirming me in my work has been so precious to me!

Fewer of you are in your younger years of ministry. And I’ve enjoyed hearing from you! I observe that you are quicker at attuning to changing cultural trends, maximizing technology for the kingdom of God, and finding innovative ways to reach people. All so necessary both now and the future!

You in the younger group, of course, are those to whom the elder group will pass the torch!

My concern is that Barna’s research points to a dearth of pastors for our future.

First off, fewer seem to be going into ministry in the first place. Only 17% of senior protestant pastors are 40 years or younger years of age. The average age of senior pastors is now 52 years old.

Now, these numbers don’t account for associate pastors, worship pastors, youth pastors, many who serve full time. Nevertheless, it clearly shows that fewer are pursuing ministry as a vocation.

Secondly, the younger pastors going into ministry are considering quitting at much higher rates.

While 28% of those 45 and older have given serious consideration to quitting over the past year (which this isn’t great either), 48% of pastors 45 years and younger report the same.

Research shows that younger pastors are not faring well spiritually, mentally, or physically. They report lower levels of satisfaction, lower levels of support and higher levels of exhaustion.  

So what to do?

Who are the younger pastors and leaders you know? Do you see opportunities to come alongside them? Perhaps your golden years can include imparting wisdom and encouraging the younger leaders?

What if you are a younger pastor yourself? Are there creative ways to reach out and support your peers?

Perhaps pass along this blog or link to our website. Consider writing or looking for innovative ways to connect with younger leaders. Or maybe simply ask what they need.  

 I would love to hear your views!

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