Just a Moment

The US population median age in 1970 was 28.1.  So, half the population was older than 28, half were younger. By 2021, the median age had risen to 38.8.  America is middle-aged now.

The US pastor median age in 2021 was 57. Read that again. Half of American pastors are within a decade of retirement. Churches are already struggling these days to find a pastor. What can we do?

We can pray. We must pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out more laborers into the fields.  We need to recognize biblically gifted and scripturally qualified men within local churches to help shepherd the flock. We also need to plan. The ant is commended in Proverbs for wise planning. This is why we’re developing (yet again) a new strategic plan. Thank you to those who filled out our recent survey. Your participation was greatly appreciated. 

While I love ministry and seek to continue serving Christ as long as my health allows, I do recognize my limitations. Our new plan seeks to include a transition. Paul Krepps and I are working on a job description for an associate within a few years. Last year’s budget and this year’s budget take into consideration bringing another man on staff with the hopes of me mentoring him. We need to pray now about this. We need to continue meeting our financial obligations which saves towards such an endeavor. The future is bright for HBC. I am excited about what is ahead. “Commit your works to the Lord and your plans will be established,” Prov 16:3.