Pastor, stay where you are!
I’m approaching my 20th year as a pastor at the same church (nearly twelve years as Senior, six years as Associate and two years as Youth Pastor). Over that period of time, I’ve considered moving on a number of times, but with each opportunity the prudent decision was to stay put. The fruit of this longevity has become apparent to me. Let me offer some of the benefits of staying put:
It provides stability in this Day
We are in what is now labeled, The Great Resignation. Americans, let alone pastors, are leaving their jobs in record numbers to find either new employment or no employment at all. The pandemic has shaken the foundations of vocational life. As pulpits empty, with a diminishing bullpen behind us in seminaries, the dire need for pastors is becoming a serious issue in virtually all denominations. There is a value in being counter-cultural, for such a time as this.
It lets your people know you love them
Many church members have seen multiple pastors come and go, and may be reserved in their affections, wondering if and when you will head for greener pastures. As years of pastoral tenure accrue, it says to your church: you are not a stepping stone. You are spiritual family. I know you by now, I love you still, and am not eager to leave you. I am a willing drink offering being poured out on your behalf (Phil 2:17; 2 Tim 4:6).
It accumulates pastoral capital
The longer you stay put, the more baby dedications, baptism, weddings and funerals you do—the more sermons you preach and the more counseling sessions you offer. It builds trust between you and the flock you shepherd. When you feel strongly about a decision, or are led to make a significant change, people are more likely to follow you. A pastor who has got a few decades under his belt has accrued the capital to make changes. It’s been rightly said, we greatly overestimate what can be done in one year, and greatly underestimate what can be done in 10 years of ministry.
It is a unifying factor for the church
Without leadership, an organization stumbles. Factions and cliques start to multiply. People with ill intentions see an opening and grasp for power. Rotating and absentee leadership leaves a vacuum for unspiritual people to take advantage. New leadership is seen as fresh meat! But the godly pastor who stays put for 30 years will root out most of the wolves and goats. He will also be actively raising up servants who are humble, gentle, and Spirit-filled.
It establishes you in the community
When you stay put long enough, your town knows your name. When someone in hospice is dying alone, they call you. When a prayer for a civic gathering is needed, they call you. When there is a public crisis that needs spiritual attention, they call you. Being a face in the community takes time. The mayor probably doesn’t know the name of the new pastors in town, and will likely not offer them his ear when they request it. But when the tenured pastor phones, city officials and community leaders answer the call.
It’s good for your own soul
Speaking for myself, restlessness is often a lack of self-discipline. It’s attractive to imagine trying out new roles or testing new professions. That isn’t necessarily bad, but it can be unwise. Wanderlust is usually satisfied with intense mission trips and creative vacations, but I am always happy to come back to “home base.” Church is where life happens. God is often at work in the grind. He is sanctifying us through our daily duties. What may seem mundane is maturing me. My soul needs that.
Of course, exceptions abound. If and when God calls you to transition, follow the Spirit. God closes and opens doors. When He says “go!”, we say “where, Lord?” Certainly never let comfort and security be your guide. But that said, our default should be to stay at our post till we hear otherwise. Stay, and minister your heart out.
Rick Harrington is a pastor at First Baptist Church - Haverhill in Massachusetts. He is the author of the books "How to Find a Church: Seven Steps to Becoming Part of a Spiritual Family" and "The Weight of Preaching: Heralding the Gospel of Grace". You can follow his writing on his blog The Lamp Post.
