Presbyterians Todayreported in their March issue a startling study of the changing weight of pastors. In the past 17 years, the average weight of pastors hs increased eleven pounds, from 181 pounds in 1991 to 192 pounds in 2008. The share of pastors who are obese has doubled from 14 percent to 27 percent in that time period. This increase, according to their study, occurred for both male and female pastors, and younger and older pastors. This is not the type of equality that we are seeking.
I’m assuming that this is happening in other denominations as well. I’m well aware that this also follows the national trend towards obesity among the general populace. There is evidence that this tendency towards obesity affects their mental health. Is it possible that it also affects their spiritual health and their capacity to engage in effective ministry?
I realize that there is a built in prejudice against heavy people. There is no physical description of Jesus in the Scriptures. The images we have are developed out of our imagination. Still, have you ever seen an image of a fat Jesus or even a heavy set Jesus. This, of course, is in contrast to the Asian image of a fat Buddah.
There is good reason to examine our prejudice regarding weight, but we also need to recognize the health costs, both mentally and physically, to inappropriate weight. And we should ask what this increase in weight among our clergy is saying about how they handle the stress and challenges of ministry.
On the positive side, the same report found that 21 percent of Presbyterian clergy are in formal weight-loss programs and 39 percent belong to fitness centers.
The full survey may be found at www.pcusa.olrg/research .
I know that some who read this blog are from other cultures. I wonder whether some of the same trends are occurring wherever you live.
