Bivocationalism

A new lens can ease the strain of ministry

A bivocational pastor draws from her career as a therapist to suggest that viewing ministry through the lens of unconditional positive regard can help clergy focus on what is thriving.

By Meagan Manas Pastor and mental health therapist

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Bivocational ministry can’t become an excuse to underpay our ministers

Bivocational ministry might become more common in the future, but we can’t let that trend include exploitation and financial insecurity, says an author.

By Melissa Florer-Bixler Pastor, Raleigh Mennonite Church

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Bivocationalism has historical roots — and modern benefits

As church size declines, more pastors pursue second (and even third) careers for economic or personal reasons. Researchers and practitioners share guidance on how to make it work, advising that letting go of the stigma can be a first step.

By Leslie Quander Wooldridge Journalist

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Don't be afraid of a future with more bivocational ministers

With collaboration and clear communication, bivocational ministry can be an opportunity to innovate and thrive, says a professor and counselor for ministers.

By Jessica Young Brown Licensed clinical psychologist

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Nathan Kirkpatrick: In pursuit of a life-giving side hustle

The future of ministry is multivocational. How can we imagine a model of multivocational ministry that is less about simply making ends meet and more about pursuing passions and engaging creativity?

By Nathan Kirkpatrick Principal, Saison Consulting, LLC

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Peter Doddema: I’m excited to see the potential in the rural church

A bivocational Episcopal priest in eastern Kentucky shares his joy at being part of a changing church.

By Peter Doddema Rector, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Harrodsburg, Kentucky

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It’s time to recalibrate expectations for clergy

By Nathan Kirkpatrick Principal, Saison Consulting, LLC

Denominations and congregations have based their expectations on full-time, paid ministry -- and yet the trend is toward part-time, bivocational and unpaid clergy.

Ken Carter: Rediscovering ancient-future practices of stewardship

There are three New Testament models of stewardship: the beggar, the patron and the tentmaker. Can we re-imagine these roles for a new age? asks a UMC bishop.

By Kenneth H. Carter Jr. UMC Bishop

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Jason Byassee: We may all be headed to bivocational ministry

Our institutions have to become more nimble, more entrepreneurial, more missional if they’re going to have futures, says a theologian and pastor. And that means a change in the nature of ministry.