Prayer is Key to Preventing Moral Decline Among Clergy

Focus on the Family
Monday, 19 August 2002

Clergy Appreciation Month Encourages Prayer for Pastors

Roman Catholic priests continue to dominate headlines related to the moral decline of our nation's clergy, however it's estimated that about 15 percent of Protestant pastors have also violated sexual ethical boundaries. While this disturbing trend represents only a minority of pastors, the numbers still shock and outrage the American public. What's more, the trend indicates that these numbers will only increase.

But the headlines tell only part of the story. Being a pastor in today's culture is more stressful and demoralizing than ever before. That's why Focus on the Family and other pastoral care agencies, publishers, bookstores and denominations are calling people of all faiths to participate in Clergy Appreciation Month this October. This year's timely and appropriate theme is "Stop … pray for your pastor."

"Prayer is a major key to bucking the trend of moral decline among our pastors," said H.B. London Jr., vice president of Ministry Outreach/Pastoral Ministries at Focus on the Family. "It's an easy yet effective way for congregations to support and affirm their pastors, which in turn reduces emotional insecurities and doubts that often open the door to temptation."

Clergy Appreciation Month has become a celebration of thanks to pastors across denominations and cultures. It's a time to recognize the faithful majority of our spiritual leaders – a time to focus on the positive when the headlines emphasize the negative. All clergy need appreciation and affirmation to make their ministries successful.

Focus on the Family has created a Clergy Appreciation Month 2002 Planning Guide, available in English and Spanish, which includes practical ideas for honoring pastoral staff and their families, an explanation of the importance of CAM, and a monthly prayer calendar. To request a planning guide, those in the United States can call 1-800-A-FAMILY (1-800-232-6459).

For more information, or to contact Focus on the Family, see their website at: www.family.org