Evangelical Fellowship of Canada launches study on pastor shortage

The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) has launched a research project to investigate a shortage of pastoral leadership within churches across the country. Conducted through the EFC’s Centre for Research on Church and Faith in partnership with Northwest Seminary’s Propel Lilly grant program, the study aims to assess the current gap in leadership and identify the factors driving it.

The research will include a needs analysis of past, present, and projected demands for the pastoral workforce among EFC-affiliated congregations. Additionally, researchers will consult with denominational, higher education, and church leaders to determine why individuals are choosing not to enter ministry and why current pastors are leaving the profession.

Key objectives of the study include establishing benchmark projections for future pastoral needs and developing strategies for recruitment. The project also seeks to understand the relationship between denominations, congregations, and Christian higher education institutions, as well as how pastors can develop the resilience necessary for long-term ministry.