6. All full-time pastors get benefits like any other employee.
Many do, but among the misconceptions about pastors this one strings: some of us receive a salary “package” out of which we must pay our own health insurance, life insurance, auto reimbursement, retirement, etc. In that case, our salary is seriously reduced.
7. We learned all we need to know in Bible school or seminary.
That’s simply not so, as no classroom experience can prepare us for all the tasks of ministry. We’re learning every day how to lead staff meetings, conduct a funeral, deal with marital conflict and address so many other issues—often by learning the hard way.
8. We have a lot of real friends.
We have many acquaintances, but often few friends. Ministry can be really lonely, actually.
9. Our home is a slice of heaven.
It may look that way on Sunday, but we experience real life the rest of the week just like everybody else does. Among the misconceptions about pastors, this might be the most private: our family has its own struggles.
10. We’re always on the lookout for the next best church.
To be honest, some pastors do live that way—and they don’t make it easy for the rest of us who are genuinely committed where God has placed us. Most of us really love our church, even with all their imperfections.
