The Pastor Shortage: Challenges and Opportunities for the Reformed Church

In this conversation, Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton, and Dan Borvan discuss various topics including the recent Reformed Forum seminar in Oklahoma City, office tchotchkes, the announcement of a new book, and the pressing issue of ministerial training and the shortage of pastors in the Reformed community.

They explore the implications of these challenges and share insights on how to address them moving forward. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of ministry, focusing on the reluctance of young men to relocate for vocational opportunities, the changing mindset towards ministry, and the need for proactive measures in raising future church leaders. They explore the challenges faced by churches in declining areas, the potential solutions such as merging congregations and bivocational ministry, and the future of ministerial education and credentialing.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction
  • 05:04 Reflections on the Oklahoma City Seminar
  • 09:33 Office Items and Fun Conversations
  • 15:30 Announcement of New Book and Upcoming Conference
  • 17:24 Discussion on Ministerial Training Crisis
  • 26:31 The Reluctance to Relocate for Ministry
  • 29:18 The Changing Mindset of Ministry Aspirants
  • 33:24 Raising Up Future Leaders in the Church
  • 39:22 Challenges of Supporting Ministers in Declining Areas
  • 44:08 Exploring Solutions: Merging Churches and Bivocational Ministry
  • 50:04 The Future of Ministerial Education and Credentialing

Participants: , ,

Reformed Forum Live is a live stream and podcast series where Camden Bucey and guests engage in thoughtful conversations on Reformed theology, biblical studies, and the church’s mission in the world. Browse more episodes from this program or subscribe to the podcast feed.

Share:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email
Podcasts & Essays

Related Resources

You Will Be My Witnesses

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey speaks with Brian DeVries, a theologian and pastor in South Africa, about his new book, You Will Be My Witnesses, which

Read More »

Reformed Forum Live (February 14, 2025)

Camden Bucey is joined by Bo Collins and Joe Cristman to discuss various topics related to their churches, upcoming events, and personal library management. They also touch on exciting developments

Read More »

Reflections on Numbers and the Call to Ministry

In this lively Friday afternoon livestream recorded on January 17, 2025, Camden Bucey and a panel of guests discuss upcoming events, including Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary’s Confessional Conference, themed “The

Read More »