The average pastor’s tenure at a church is about four years. And it seems to be getting shorter. In the wake of the pandemic burnout rates have soared. A third of pastors have considered quitting. And many change up churches because they’re forced out by critical church members, or they simply move on to greener pastures. But there’s a beauty in staying put. As pastor Benjamin Vrbicek writes:

"I realize that simply staying put in the pulpit is itself a victory. Just showing up and being faithful this Sunday and the next, this month and the next, this year and the next, is what God requires of me—of us. Preach another decent sermon, officiate another wedding, bury another beloved saint, and send another dozen emails. And then do it again."

To understand the benefits of staying at one church over for the long haul, read Pastors, There’s a Ministry in Staying Put.

Of course, the reason many pastors leave is burnout. If you feel yourself running on empty, check out our resource: How To Prevent Ministry Burnout. It will help keep your priorities in order, your integrity high, and your attitude positive when things get tough.