Apples of Gold II

Ladies,

This is what I read to you last night.  We need to be in prayer for our pastors and for all of those who are going into full time ministry. 

The Reality:

According to a New York Times article, members of the clergy:

.....now suffer from obesity, hypertension and depression at rates higher than most Americans.

.....in the last decade, their use of antidepressants has risen, while their life expectancy has fallen.

.....many would CHANGE JOBS if they could.

.....Focus on the Family has estimated that 1500 U.S. Pastors leave the ministry every month due to church conflict, personal issues, family problems, marriage concerns or financial pressures.

.....Pastors are on call 24/7 for the people they serve and many have "boundary issues" - defined as being too easily overtaken by the urgency of other people's needs.

.....80% of new pastors will leave the ministry within their first 5 years!

Thank you again for a wonderful night last night!  May God be glorified!!!  Do something KIND for someone today!

In His Service,

Robin