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National Association of Congregational Christian Churches,  P.O. Box 288, Oak Creek, WI  53154
414-764-1620 
Email: naccc@naccc.org   Web Site: http://www.naccc.org

by Rev. Phil Jackson

Recent studies show what I had already suspected, that America is in the beginning of a severe pastoral leadership shortage. The studies, conducted by Auburn Theological Seminary, state that fewer than one third of students in seminaries across the nation intend to minister in congregational settings. Plus, the number of seminary students under 35 years of age has dropped by almost two-thirds since the 1970's. Add to this the reality that the boomers are beginning to retire and you have a clergy shortage like we have never seen before.

Why? Sheryl Carle Fancher, of the Midwest Ministry Development Service, says it is because young people who are involved in the church see clergy being criticized or abused by congregational leadership, struggling with personal finances, and just plain worn out. It just doesn't make for a very appealing vocational choice.

I think she is right! And here's a few things I believe you and I can do to help turn this around:

• Appreciate your ministry staff and be aware of the pressures they are under 24/7.

• Create a Mutual Ministry committee to work out issues on both sides of the pew before they become an issue.

• Know that most clergy can make more money doing something else and be honored and respected for what they do.

• Encourage young adults to consider pastoral ministry. (It can be quite rewarding, really.)

• Pray for your minister(s), your church and your National Association.

Be a part of a creative solution, not a part of the problem. And remember, someday, you will be needing a new minister. Together let's make sure there is one available for you.

In His Service

RINALDO PAINTING IN SPECIAL EXHIBIT
Karen Rinaldo's painting of the first thanksgiving, commissioned by the NACCC for its 40^th anniversary, was recently used (with our permission), in a special exhibit by the Plymouth Historical Assoc. As part of the exhibit, a video was made, using the painting as the best depiction of the little known fact that there were twice as many natives at the "dinner" than paintings before Rinaldo's have depicted. The painting remains on permanent loan to the Plimoth Plantation.

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