January 1, 2026
Succession and the Church
Few churches handle lead minister succession well, but there are four steps for an effective succession PLAN (Prepare, Look Ahead, Assess, Navigate).
Articles for tag: Parsonage
January 10, 2018
When Personal Finances Strangle Ministry
By Tom Burbrink, Kim Robinette, and Karen Isaacs People of all stripes have difficulty with personal finances, but it can be even more challenging for ministers. A minister’s life is an open book; his salary might be public knowledge. When a minister struggles with personal finances, it impacts his effectiveness and can even cause him to leave the pulpit. Some of the best ministers are terrible at handling their personal finances. Contributing factors include: A lack of financial training in seminary Absence of teaching on how to keep simple records of ministry expenses An unavailability of people with whom to
October 19, 2010
As We Publish Our Hiring Articles
Mark A. Taylor reflects on a young minister’s painful transition and urges churches to follow careful hiring procedures that clarify expectations before calling a new minister.
January 28, 2007
Seven Heavens: Memories of Growing Up in Parsonages
A preacher’s kid looks back on seven parsonages in the 1950s—misfit houses, constant visitors, and unforgettable family mishaps—discovering that imperfect places can hold the happiest memories.
January 28, 2007
The Parsonage: Whose House Is This?
Parsonages can blur boundaries and create “not exactly” living arrangements that strain privacy, expectations, and maintenance responsibilities. This article explains the financial downsides for ministers and offers practical alternatives churches can consider.
November 27, 2005
MINISTERIAL PAY — How: As Important as How Much
Ministers have unique tax status, and churches often make avoidable payroll mistakes. Learn how to handle W-2 reporting, housing allowance designation, reimbursements, and filing deadlines with greater accuracy and stewardship.
