The Barna Research Group does some very interesting polling each year. I’d like to
share some statistics with you this month.
Barna’s research, done in Spring 2021 shows the following:
● Being a Pastor is hard work
● 29% of pastors are giving serious thought to quitting
● 17,000 pastors are leaving the church every year
Reports like this can paint a pretty bleak picture of being a pastor in 2022. There is
hope, however, as these statistics do not represent every situation. This past
Sunday, I was invited to share in a congregational celebration for a pastor, as he
and his wife have been faithfully ministering at this church for 25 years! It was
such a JOYFUL celebration of how this pastoral couple has remained faithful to the
calling of God in their lives. I hope he has another 25 years in him!
Before I close this letter I want to remind you that October is Pastor Appreciation
Month. I encourage you to reach out to your pastor, either through email or even
dropping a note in the mail. Some of you might be in the position to send a gift
card for a nice dinner out or a trip to the movies. These notes of appreciation are so
appreciated and will make your pastor’s day.
Good things are happening here at Fishbowl ministries, and I so appreciate your
prayers. I recently met and interviewed a pastor who would like to be part of
Fishbowl Ministries, so please be in prayer for those decisions.
Thank you for all of your prayers and generous financial gifts to FBM!
Grace and Peace,
Lyle
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