Proposal Summary
A National Study of Associate Pastors and Their Ministry
John (Jack) Marcum
Presbyterian Church (USA)
Summary
The Research Services Office of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) requests funding for a national survey of associate pastors in conjunction with Wave II of the U.S. Congregational Life Survey in the fall of 2008. The proposed study will focus on full-time associate ministerial staff who serve in congregations, regardless of ordination status. An estimated 20-25% of congregations are served by one or more full-time associate pastors. Little is known about these clergy and their preparation for ministry, sources of support and satisfaction, mental and physical health, relationships with other congregational leaders, and influence on congregational effectiveness. Because most clergy studies profile only senior or solo pastors, no conclusions can be made about whether associates are more likely to leave parish ministry, how long associates typically serve a congregation, and in how many congregations they serve. We plan to develop a unique Associate Pastor Survey, designed to address issues specific to the position's challenges, which goes beyond a mere demographic profile. Wave II of the US CLS provides a valuable opportunity to assess associate pastor leadership within the context of their congregation, other staff, and the local community.
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