There could be many reasons why Protestant denominations are short of pastors, but congregations need to assume some responsibility. Unless members and church officers hold the ministry in high esteem and encourage church members of all ages to consider it as a vocation, Presbyterians may continue to experience shortages for years to come.
Our constitution places the inception of the call of a pastor into the hands of the local congregation. Officers who feel the pull of the Spirit and wonder if their gifts are moving them toward new forms of ministry need “the church shall help them to interpret their call” (G-6.0105). Members of the congregation must be aware of their abilities and the needs of the church as a whole. This new calling requires “strong faith, dedicated discipleship, and the love of Jesus Christ” as well as the “approval of God’s people and the concurring judgment of a governing body of the church” (G-6.0106).
But the congregation does more than “pray for the presence and the guidance of the Holy Spirit” among adults contemplating vocational change. It must also actively encourage children and young people to consider pastoral ministry as a challenging and creative task worthy of the best they have to offer. This can be done by making sure that pastors intentionally get to know children through weekly programs; that they are periodically encouraged to consider the ministry in children’s talks, church school, and youth groups; that they are allowed to see and experiment with cutting edge ministries so they can imagine what service might entail in the future.
Members of the congregation must consider and encourage the gifts young people have in reading, speaking, praying, displaying sensitivity to others, exhibiting organizational skills, and functioning as church officers. They must pray for them, give them praise, and take them to theological seminaries to show them what the ministry really involves. The session should take steps to invest money to be used for seminary expenses when members become inquirers and candidates (G-14.0306).
The General Assembly actively recognizes the role of the congregation in the development of ministry through a program called PLSE (Pastoral Leadership Search Effort). Churches are encouraged to nominate young people (with their consent) for a program that includes them in a church-wide data bank of those who are seen as pastoral candidates. They are connected with mentors and are provided with information on parish internships and other opportunities in their area (https://www.theplse.org). A second program, Advocates for Ministry, is designed to encourage outstanding college students to consider God’s call. Instituted in 2001, representatives have visited more than 94 colleges and universities to provide information to those interested in the ministry as a vocation. It is funded by the Lilly Endowment, the PC(USA), theological seminaries, and private donors.
Where do ministers come from? From the Spirit’s activity in the lives of individuals in congregations like yours, from the encouragement and prayers of congregations, from the positive role model provided by your pastor, and from the guidance of presbyteries like yours.
EARL S. JOHNSON JR. is the pastor of First church, Johnstown, N.Y.
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