A first step is simply an honest recognition of the challenge inherent in ministry. Most good clergy accept that they are in a very demanding profession. However, few people ever stop to think about what the variety of demands are on the pastor. Below is an exercise in simply recognizing the challenge. Make copies of the worksheet and ask each elder to fill out the form and then compare notes before they also compare it with a pastor’s own estimation of his or her time demands.
Estimating Hours Worked
Below is a list of tasks that most ministers perform regularly. Please estimate the number of hours you think might be required in the average week. Guessing is allowed and encouraged. Don’t try to total the number until you are finished guessing at each individual item.
TELEPHONE, E-MAIL, CORRESPONDENCE _____
ADMINISTRATION _____
SUPERVISION OF STAFF &/OR VOLUNTEERS _____
COMMITTEE MEETINGS DURING THE DAY _____
COMMITTEE MEETINGS HELD AT NIGHT _____
WORSHIP PLANNING AND CONDUCTING _____
SERMON PREPARATION AND PREACHING _____
PRIVATE PRAYER AND SPIRITUAL PRACTICE _____
CHURCH SCHOOL PLANNING _____
TEACHER / OFFICER TRAINING _____
HOSPITAL OR CRISIS VISITING _____
HOME VISITING _____
TEACHING _____
COUNSELING _____
SPECIAL EVENT PLANNING AND PARTICIPATION _____
(weddings, funerals, seasonal events, etc.)
YOUTH MINISTRY _____
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY _____
SERVICE & MISSION WORK _____
COMMUNITY WORK WITH OTHER CHURCHES _____
EVANGELISM AND WITNESS _____
DENOMINATIONAL WORK _____
TOTAL HOURS _____
