A Burden for Bivocational Pastors

According to a June 4, 2025, LifeWay Research article, National Survey of Religious Leaders (NSRL) report revealed 35% of all clergy in the U.S. serve bivocationally, holding an additional job outside of their congregational ministry.

Among evangelical Protestants, bivocational ministry is even more common. The study found almost half (47%) report having a second job. Around a third of Black Protestant pastors are bivocational (35%).”

Many times bivocational, trivocational, and covocational pastors feel alone or unnoticed.  Most of my ministry life, I have been bivocational or trivocational and oftentimes I felt as though I was alone in the field, felt looked down upon, or felt overlooked by denominational encouragers.
 
The truth is I was not overlooked and many were actually praying for me. They just simply couldn’t relate to working a secular job for 40-50 hours per week in addition to planting and pastoring a church. They didn’t understand how to encourage or resource me. Sometimes I didn’t know what would help me best.

First, I want every pastor to know that you are prayed for regardless of your vocational status. We at the SCBO notice you and the work you are doing.
 
Second, I also want to let you know that I am available for evening and weekend conversations at times to discuss your health and the health of your congregation.

Third, I want to simply ask those of you who work a secular/secondary role to provide for your family; how can we best pray for you? As a bivocational, trivocational, covocational, etc. pastor/planter, what are your greatest struggles? How can we best serve and come alongside you?

Oftentimes a congregation is only as healthy as their pastor. How healthy are you? I would love to connect with you about healthy habits as a bivocational pastor and help you lead your congregation to health.
 
Connect with me via email at mjones@scbo.org or via text at 330-806-3755. Let me know how we can pray for you and the best time/day we can connect.