Last week, I shared one solution to curb pastoral resignations in rural church plants. Today, I'll cover the remaining solutions:
2. Encourage Missionary Refreshment
Missionaries often work alone, leading to exhaustion and burnout. Encourage them to take leave days to refresh and recharge. Identify able and faithful men to stand in during the pastor's absence, ensuring the church has a refreshed pastor rather than one on the verge of collapse.
3. Regular Visits
Sending churches should plan regular visits to the church plant, building meaningful relationships with members and missionaries. This helps encourage the missionary, provides valuable insights for prayer and support, and allows the sending church to understand the challenges faced by the missionary.
At a Southern Province youth camp
4. Consider Church Plant's History Context
Recognize that each church plant has a unique history and context. Some may have experienced leadership gaps, conflicts, or other challenges. Acknowledge these factors and offer support and understanding to the missionary.
5. Address Financial Gaps
Rural church plants often face financial challenges due to member relocation. Consider empowering the mission station through economic activities like schools, clinics, or sports facilities, which can also serve as outreach opportunities. Ensure the missionary's financial needs are met, and they don't feel manipulated or undervalued.
Additionally, if a pastor chooses to do tent-making (part-time work), the church should be prepared to accommodate their schedule, understanding that it may impact their availability for preaching, visits, and other responsibilities.
Thank you for joining me in this series. Join me next time as I conclude this important subject.
