Why We Exist

 

The problem of forced-termination in ministry is staggering. The average church-member may not realize the seriousness of such a problem, but ministers are all too aware of the stresses in ministry which lead to such problems for so many. Many ministers who smile on the outside are withering inside. Research indicates up to 68 percent of ministers are dealing with symptoms related to depression..."Hurting Pastors". In recent years, "Clergy Life" has been dotted with ministers who have committed suicide following extended bouts of depression.

 

Consider the following sobering statistics about those who sacrifice so much for the sake of the Kingdom: 

​Of Pastors in America…

• Every six minutes a pastor or clergy person is fired or forced out in the United States (Clergy Killers, G. Lloyd Rediger, Westminster John Knox Press, 2009).

• 90% feel inadequately trained to cope with ministry demands (1991 Survey of Pastors, Fuller Theological Seminary).

• 80% believe that pastoral ministry affects their families negatively (1991 Survey of Pastors, Fuller Theological Seminary).

• 40% have serious conflict with a church member at least once a month – the chief cause of exodus from ministry (1991 Survey of Pastors, Fuller Theological Seminary).

• 20% admit to having an affair while in the ministry (www.saveus.org, accessed October 2002).

• 37% admit that internet pornography is a current struggle (Leadership Journal, Winter 2001).

• 70% do not have someone they consider a close friend (www.saveus.org, accessed October 2002).