Pastors report high burnout despite low resignation rates

Recent studies indicate a significant gap between the mental well-being of pastors and their actual rates of resignation. While many clergy members report high levels of stress, the number of pastors leaving full-time ministry remains low. A Lifeway Research study of over 1,500 evangelical and Black Protestant pastors found that only 1.2% leave the profession annually, a figure that has remained steady for a decade.

Despite low resignation rates, burnout is widespread. Approximately 57% of pastors report feeling overwhelmed, and two-thirds feel the need to be reachable around the clock. Research from the Barna Group shows that while the number of pastors seriously considering quitting peaked at 42% in 2022, it has since stabilized at around 24%.

In the United States, the Culture Resurrection Index reported that 82% of surveyed pastors have considered stepping away from ministry in the last five years. For those considering leaving, 74% cited issues with church culture—such as leadership and staff relationships—as the primary factor. Additionally, 63% of pastors reported never receiving training in providing difficult feedback, highlighting a perceived lack of leadership training in seminary education. Similar concerns regarding burnout, isolation, and morale have been noted by the Church of England.