Pastor Alexander Lang has recently published an article that blew up on social media over Labor Day weekend regarding his resignation from the First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights in Illinois. He said this: “I have become a part of what is known as the Great Pastor Resignation that came in the wake of the pandemic. 

George Barna did a national survey of pastors and, as of March 2022, 42% of pastors considered quitting. Here are the top five reasons:

1. The immense stress of the job: 56%
2. I feel lonely and isolated: 43%
3. Current political divisions: 38%
4. I am unhappy with the effect this role has had on my family: 29%
5. I am not optimistic about the future of my church: 29%”

Pastor Lang goes on to say: “I can relate to all of these, but in particular, the top two are the ones that figured heavily into my decision.”

The Great Pastor Resignation has continued in our world since the global pandemic. And I personally would be less than truthful if I said I had not considered it too.  Pastoring was difficult before the global pandemic, but to some, it feels unbearable since then.

But Beloved, I remain hopeful that God has so much more for us to do…..together.  So, let’s not grow weary, but let us focus on the mission that we have been called to participate in, Together in Christ!  

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

                                                                                    Galatians 6:9

Blessings,

Pastor