For nearly twenty years, each day, one would hear or see in the news that a senior pastor has committed suicide, unexpectedly resigned, or was investigated for mismanagement of funds. As ministers of the gospel, we are expected to provide hope in a hopeless society. We are expected to express joy in times of sorrow. We are expected to be physically and emotionally stable, even in our hardships. So, what has gone wrong? What is happening to the shepherds of God's sheep?
Rise and Fall of Pastors in the 21st Century takes the reader on a journey from God's intent for pastors to individuals responding to the call to ministry; from ministerial training to ministry expectations; from the pastor's family to ministry highs and lows; and it ends with the warning signs and the need for pastoral soul care. This book encourages pastors to identify the threats, recognize the warning signs, and seek soul care. This book causes parishioners to proactively and earnestly pray for their pastors. The Apostle Paul encouraged the church in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercession, and giving thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."