clergy Archives

Rolling * with * the * holy * punches

Posted July 8th, 2022

A California pastor describes her struggles of continuing to be a voice of hope even in the midst of a pandemic and personal foibles.

The toll of the pandemic and political tribalism on PC(USA) pastors

Posted May 19th, 2021

Two years ago, before the pandemic, a pastor at a Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) church in Texas was thinking about retiring at age 70. Now he hopes he can make it for 17 more months to reach the retirement age of 66 years and 4 months.

Deacons: breathing new life in an ancient church office

Posted May 1st, 2020

There is often ambiguity about what deacons do. Some Presbyterian churches are taking another look at this ministry and redefining it to meet their needs.

And God said … thou shalt not burn out

Posted August 22nd, 2019

Burnout. Just reading the word is enough to cause the shoulders to droop, the body to want to curl up in a ball and find somewhere to rest. For many church leaders it can be an ever-present companion in the life and ministry of the congregation.

McCord, Adams are most-recently named chaplains at Lakes and Prairies universities

Posted October 31st, 2017

Church ties may be looser and students may be less religious than in past generations, but most Presbyterian colleges and universities still believe in the role of a campus chaplain.

When church hurts: Spiritual wounds and paths to healing

Posted August 3rd, 2017

It took many years for the Rev. Kris Schondelmeyer to acknowledge and seek treatment for the sexual assault he suffered as a teenager at the hands of a trusted pastor. He did not imagine that it would also take many years for leaders in his denomination to accept responsibility for what happened to him and take decisive steps to protect children in the church.

Charlotte churches regroup after long week of demonstrations, unrest

Posted October 25th, 2016

Although the streets of Charlotte, North Carolina are now quiet following protests in response to the September 20 shooting death of Keith Lamont Scott by police, area Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) pastors say the historic and deep-seated sentiment that fostered unrest after this killing remains.

‘Company of New Pastors’ program provides formation framework for ministry

Posted May 19th, 2016

‘Company of New Pastors’ program provides formation framework for ministry.