How to Become a Pastor

What Is a Pastor? 

A pastor is the leader of a Christian congregation. Pastors may guide members of a church in worship and offer spiritual and personal counsel. In fact, pastor is the Latin word for “shepherd.” That’s fitting, since pastors often lead church members in their faith and lives.

Often, pastors are ordained ministers or priests. Ordination means they are licensed to perform certain rites and rituals. Like, baptisms, weddings, and funerals. But not all pastors are ordained. For example, in the Protestant religion, pastors who aren’t ordained may still deliver sermons, give counsel, and more.

What Does a Pastor Do? 

Pastors typically serve as faith leaders to their congregations. They may educate parishioners about the teachings of the Bible and Jesus Christ. Duties to that end include presiding over mass, delivering sermons, and performing rites. Pastors may interpret the scripture for the congregation. So, they serve as a direct connection to God’s teachings. Making the Bible come alive for modern people is often key to the job.

But pastors may do more than hold sacred leadership roles in their churches. They’re also members of a larger community. So, their duties may go far beyond the altar. Pastors may visit sick parishioners or counsel those going through tough times. When offering moral and spiritual guidance, pastors still call on the teachings of scripture. But, they may do so in many ways besides religious ceremonies. 

And finally, pastors must often perform practical duties. These could range from answering parishioners’ emails to holding planning meetings with church leaders. Some pastors are even active on social media as a way to connect with the community.  

When it comes to the work of a pastor, no job description is complete. That said, some responsibilities and duties of a pastor may include:

• Leading worship services on Sunday—and sometimes, other days in the week 
• Researching, preparing, and delivering sermons or religious messages 
• Presiding over rites and sacraments, including baptisms, weddings, and funerals 
• Giving moral, spiritual, personal, and religious guidance 
• Counseling couples prior to marriage or during challenging times 
• Guiding local church members in following biblical principles 
• Engaging in prayer and reflection to strengthen their relationship with God 
• Having expert knowledge of the Bible and leading others in study 
• Demonstrating high standards of behavior in their lives 
• Overseeing church administration and communication 

Steps on How to Become a Pastor 

Becoming a pastor is a journey. It often includes study, preparation, and soul searching. And it’s different for everybody. But here are the typical steps to becoming a pastor: 

1. Be a Church Member in Good Standing. Many pastors don’t commit to a life of service to God and others out of the blue. They already have a relationship with God. And, they’re active church members. When it comes to doctrine, there’s always more to learn. But it helps to start with a good foundation.  

2. Do Some Self Examination. More than a job, becoming a pastor is often a life’s calling. So, it may be important to understand the responsibilities involved. To find out if this path is perfect for you, talk to your own pastor. Ask for guidance in the vocation you are considering. And do a lot of thinking and praying. Also consider if you have the right skill set. A few skills include:
   • Oral communication – Having the ability to both speak and listen to members of the congregation. This includes during a ceremony or celebration or when dealing with members one on one.
   • Written communication – Being able to write down messages and to communicate with the members of the organization both professionally and spiritually. This could mean interpretation of historic writings to motivational and educational writings.
   • Problem solving – Being able to not only help individuals of the congregation with guidance in finding solutions to their problems but with the actual organization as well. This could include items such as finding places to gather or when to meet.
   • Problem solving – Being able to not only help individuals of the congregation with guidance in finding solutions to their problems but with the actual organization as well. This could include items such as finding places to gather or when to meet.
   • Teaching – Knowing the history as well as the beliefs of the chosen religion with which you are practicing and being able to pass that knowledge on. Understanding the best way to promote and deliver your message to the followers you have been entrusted with.

3. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree. Pastors often have deep knowledge of the Bible. And philosophy. Not to mention, the history of religion. Earning a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, theology, or a related field could be a good start. Expect to take courses on the Old and New Testament, church history, world religions, and more. 

4. Earn a Master’s Degree. Educational requirements for pastors vary. But often, you’ll need to earn a Master of Divinity (M.Div.). This is not just a great way to expand your theological education. Such a degree may cover what’s expected from you in your pastoral ministry. That may include everything from sermon writing to pastoring challenges. A Bible college or seminary may offer programs designed for future pastors.  

5. Become Ordained. The process of getting ordained may vary by church. Often, it involves an examination by an ordination council. They may ask you questions to test your knowledge of doctrine. If your answers satisfy the council, they may typically ordain you as a pastor. 

6. Find Your Ministry. In many cases, pastors apply for jobs like other professionals do. Networking, word of mouth, and job postings could alert you to open roles. Many candidates may look for senior pastor positions. But not all pastors serve in church leadership roles. Some may work in other settings. Like, colleges and youth ministries. And not all pastors work full time. Part-time pastors could have other kinds of jobs along with pastoring.  

Pastor Salary and Job Growth 

The 2019 BLS median salary for clergy members such as pastors was $24.23 hourly and $50,400 per year. As far as job growth, pastor roles should increase by 3 to 4% between 2019 and 2029. That’s about as fast as average for all other jobs. 2019 Salary for clergy members by state is:

As provided by BLS, the 2019 median salary by state is:

Here’s more information about preparing for a pastor role at each step of your education. 

Bachelor’s degree 

Pastors typically earn a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, theology, pastoral studies, or a related area. These programs may offer a strong foundation in biblical study and scripture. You may also take general education courses. These may include English, communications, philosophy, and sociology. Here are a few areas of study, courses you could take, and the curriculum goals:

Master’s degree 

In many cases, pastors may go on to earn a Master of Divinity (M.Div.). This is a program of theological study. It is designed for those who seek ordination to the Christian ministry. So, it aims to teach the deep knowledge pastors need to serve as spiritual leaders. And, it may orient them to the life of the church. Here are some areas of study you may encounter, related courses, and curriculum goals.