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How to become a Pastor?

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Talent.com talent.com
Answered March 05 2021
Career Expert at Talent.com
Most Pastors obtain formal collegial education, then work as junior Pastors or missionaries before getting their congregation. However, the most important part of becoming a Pastor is to feel a spiritual calling and ministry passion. 

  • Obtain a Bachelor's degree
Most Pastors have a bachelor's degree in theology, liberal studies, religious studies, or Divinity. 

  • Seminary study
Pastors are typically appointed through the religious denomination to which they belong. After completing an undergraduate degree, you can apply to your church's seminary school for further study. There are usually several degree options within seminary school, with the most common one being a Master of Divinity. Depending on the church you belong to, seminary study may not be required, but it is recommended to deepen your understanding of scripture and help you grow.
 
  • Training
Each church has its training requirements and programs, but generally, Pastors spend some time as missionaries, youth ministers, or penitentiary Pastors before being given a congregation. The goal of this step is to expose you to many different people. It also helps develop your empathy and humility to view the world and your faith from many different angles. You can also work as a junior Pastor under someone you admire.

  • Look for senior Pastor opportunities
Depending on your denomination's needs, you will usually hear about opportunities from their senior governing organization. Apply to postings when you feel ready to meet the needs of a whole congregation. 

Important Things to Know Before Becoming a Pastor
  • A Pastor's work is never done
You may get phone calls and texts at any time, including in the middle of the night. Some of these may be urgent, and others not so much. You will need to set clear boundaries about your availability, as your work is never indeed done.

  • No one will see your bright young potential and want to mentor you
The people you look up to that you wish to have as mentors are all busy and not necessarily looking for mentees. You need to advocate for yourself and prove to them that they should mentor you. 

  • Your success will be measured by how many people you can get into a room
Pastoral work has many other aspects, but the primary benchmark for your success will be if your ministry grows or shrinks. You will be praised for growth and blamed for shrinkage. 

  • Be prepared to move many times
Most Pastors get moved from different churches and even change cities or states quite often. You need to understand what that means for your lifestyle and especially if you have a family, consider the impact that constant moving has on them.
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