In the 2008 research that I have been mentioning, when asked their major stress concerns in the ministry, respondents answered:
Around half or more respond “very concerned” or “concerned” when asked about:
o Congregational growth (67%)
o Congregational leadership (57%)
o Congregational finances (53%)
o Denominational issues (52%)
Given all the publicity that denominational fights get in our media, note that the top three stressors for clergy are focused on the health of the local congregation. Since over half of the Presbyterian congregations in this country are under 100 members, it is no wonder that pastors are concerned about congregational growth. And most clergy are aware that such potential growth depends not just on the clergy but the quality of lay leadership within the congregation. I have long advocated that the annual evaluation should be an evaluation of the total leadership with respect to the challenges that are before a congregation. Clergy have a major role to play in that but they can be easily stymied by a sluggish leadership team. See the Toolbox on the PPCN website, www.pastoralcarenetwork.org for a helpful way to go about evaluation.
Congregational finances are a reality check for most churches. There are two different aspects that need to be examined. One is the level of stewardship of the individual members. If this is God’s work that is being carried forth, then is a 2% level of giving something that needs to be challenged? How do we invite our membership to be partners with God through the work of our congregations?
The second aspect has to be a serious reflection on whether we are spending merely to support an institution and whether we need to be more creative and innovative in how we carry out the ministry of Jesus Christ in our world. Where, for example, do buildings enhance our work and when do they become a barrier to spreading the word.
Denominational issues can become major stressors but too often they become the easy scapegoat to avoid responding to the more difficult issues closer to home.
