clergy morale
The Church of England is facing crises in vocations, in funding for theological training and parish ministry and in clergy morale and retention; all set within the wider context of national and global challenges such as the rise of extreme ideologies and the impact of global warming.
Clergy morale appears to be low in general and while the work at Synod with regard to housing, pay and pensions is ongoing, we must ensure that those who spend their lives caring for others are sustainably supported in long-term ministry themselves.
Working to bolster clergy morale, as well as proper accountability: Some of us may feel as clergy that we too are beyond the household: we may doubt our worthiness, and the recent report from Save the Parish re-emphasised the threats posed to the flourishing of all of us by the lack of trust between clergy and ‘the centre’ and by that demoralisation experienced by many.
I am very concerned about clergy morale at the present time, and would work hard on Synod to ensure that the key role of clergy, alongside lay members, is properly recognised, cherished, and promoted.
Strengthening parishes by investing in people over ideas: addressing continuing issues with low clergy morale and well-being, and making our churches more accessible to everyone, regardless of background.
It also impacts negatively on clergy morale, as those working hard in often challenging circumstances feel that their ministry is under- valued by the NCIs.
Recent evidence about clergy morale and the numbers considering leaving ministry should concern us all.