New research has shed light on the factors that make pastors more likely a step away from the pulpit,the Christian Today website reports today (Sept. 18, 2025).
A Lifeway Research study found that just 1,1% of Protestant pastors leave pastoral ministry each year prior to retirement age. However, a comparison of current and former pastors reveals important predictors of pastoral longevity -- and what drives some to quit.
The executive director of Lifeway Research , ScottMcConnell, said: "Experts can theorize what keeps pastors in the pulpit, but only a comparison of pastors who have stayed to those who have left can point to what matters."
Among the findings are that family life plays a decisive role . Pastors who put their families first and integrate them inti minnistry are significantly more likely to remain in leadership.
Those who put their families first during scheduling conflicts were 1% times more likely to still be serving.
By contrast, resentment within the family proved damandingg : 41% of former pastors said their families resented ministry demands , compared to 16% of current pastors.
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