There’s no question about it: bivocational ministry has been gaining more airtime in the CRCNA.
The Study of Bivocationality Task Force recently released its substantial report for Synod 2021; this was summarized by this recent article in The Banner. The report builds on a prior Bivocational Task Force Report to Synod 2019, itself a response to a gathering in April 2018 on “What Role Will Bivocational Ministry Play in the Future of the CRCNA?” (the first of its kind, to my knowledge).
Denominational ministries and agencies are more squarely considering how to support bivocational pastors. Pastor Church Resources and its Financial Shalom program are among them.
Financial Shalom seeks to alleviate financial challenges facing pastors. But as its name suggests, money is not the ultimate end-game: the goal is for pastors to have healthy and right relationships—with themselves, their work, their families, their communities, their churches, and yes, their resources. Bivocationality poses opportunities and challenges to each of these relationships. So Financial Shalom seeks to support current or potential bivocational pastors through a new program, the Bivocational Growth Fellowship.
This Fellowship will support 10-20 pastors a year to take steps toward long-term financial sustainability and vocational fit. It will provide participants with financial assistance, training resources, and goal development support. Within a cohort of fellow pastors, participants will develop a plan, receive vocational and financial coaching, pursue additional training and learning opportunities customized to their situation, and share experiences with colleagues for mutual learning and growth.
If you are yourself engaged in or considering bivocational ministry, you are welcome to apply! You can learn more and APPLY HERE through December 11th.
Please consider sharing this opportunity with any pastors or churches you know who are considering or curious about bivocational ministry.
To discuss the Bivocational Growth Fellowship or bivocational ministry in the CRCNA more generally, you can reach me at [email protected].
