Others mentioned the difficulty of pastoring people who are strongly shaped by the internet and social media. “Individualism, and not having the categories, language, or tools to address it,” said Brad Edwards, a church planter and lead pastor in Lafayette, Colorado. “In other words, we’re all fish trying to describe the experience of being wet. Close 2nd (but related): the many ways social media is deforming and distorting society.”
“Pastoring people who have already been pastored/shaped by online teaching/teachers. The digital discipleship that forms their views/perspectives rather than in flesh and blood community,” said Dustin Boreland, a pastor in Stouffville, Ontario.
“Lack of discipleship!” said Steven MacCuaig, whose profile says he is an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene.
“The internet,” said Ryan Quanstrom, a pastor in Wyoming, Michigan.
Quite a few people mentioned that church members expect pastors to fill a multitude of roles, yet in small churches there is often a lack of resources. “Congregants’ unrealistic expectations,” said author Dorothy Littell Greco.
“Pastors are expected to be Renaissance Men, experts in preaching, teaching, leading, administration, evangelism, etc.,” said Daniel Ostendorff, a pastor in Longview, Texas. “The expectation on pastors is that they have all (or most) of the spiritual gifts.”
A man who pastors a Lutheran church in Queens said, “In smaller congregations there is less volunteer support and with that less specific expertise that helps make the congregation function well.”
“As a pastor of a small church, remaining faithful and bringing the same energy, devotion, and passion regardless of who shows up,” said Ian Howard, a pastor in Silver Spring, Maryland. “Some Sundays we have 8 people. Some we have 30. [It’s] a challenge to keep practices, rhythms, and energy not knowing who and how many will show up.”
“That as the pastor [you] are not only the pastor but the HR consultant, the media and marketing manager, the facilities specialist, the financial director and a team builder,” said user Candice Leicher.
“Fear/lack of commitment to community life within a local church,” said user Jonny Sharp.
Some people mentioned the difficulty of resting well and giving attention to their own spiritual lives. “Getting time in for personal prayer,” said Brian Fulthorp, whose website bio says he is a hospice chaplain.
