Many pastors are considering calling it quits and leaving their vocation behind.
After two years of pandemic stress, deep political divisions, and secular attacks against the church, many clergy say they're burned out. A study of Protestant pastors in March by the faith-based research organization Barna Group found 42% of ministers wondering if they should hang up their robes for good.
“Pastors are people as well. They’re human. They are not immune to these things that other people are dealing with, and sometimes they might put a little too much pressure on themselves,” Jonathan Saenz, president of Texas Values, said.
He believes the situation is getting better. During the peak of the pandemic, many churches were closed or held limited gatherings.
Many in the ministry say to avoid burnout it’s critical to have a network of friendships and personal support.