Seasoned Pastors Speak: Advice for Emerging Pastors

As a seasoned pastor, if I could offer some advice to a young pastor regarding self-care and setting boundaries, I would suggest the following:

"As a pastor with over 27 years of active service, I strongly encourage young pastors and ministers, especially those who are married or have children, to prioritize balance in their lives as they pursue God's calling.

While the desire to serve God is central to our mission, it’s equally important to nurture and love our families in a way that leaves no doubt about their place in our hearts. Serving God is vital, but so is ensuring that your family feels valued and supported.

Equally important is taking time for rest and rejuvenation. This journey we’re on is a long one, continuing until the return of Jesus. Therefore, maintaining balance is crucial for long-term faithfulness and health in ministry.

Thank you, Dr. Camille, for this opportunity to share."

~Eugene Barney Jr. , Pastor of Richmond Baptist Church

7351 Highway 21 N.

 Port Wentworth, Georgia 31407

"Fully understanding of how properly nourishment for the Spirit, Soul And Body is. It’s important to properly balance and understand the components of each. We are spiritual beings having a natural experience in the earth. The spirit is eternal however the soul must matures and the body must be capable of carrying the spirit and its purpose out in the earth. I hope that this helps!and deepen our own spiritual practice. " 

~Pastor Eric Jerome Campbell, 

21 years as a Pastor

Word For Life Ministries

Walterboro, SC

"Pastors, how do we keep it moving? Jesus was one who, in the later part of His ministry, was not allowed in the church. At times, we, as pastors, may find ourselves in similar situations with churches today. But here’s what I say: Jesus preached wherever He could. The return of Jesus depends on the gospel being preached throughout the world. So, don’t stress over buildings and people. Get the gospel out whenever and wherever you can so that Jesus can come and claim the true church, which is in our hearts. " 

~Pastor Alan O'Neal

26 years as a Pastor

Union Skidaway Baptist Church Savannah, GA

“After 32 years of serving in ministry, I have found out that burnt out happens.  Whenever you do ministry in your flesh and in the wrong ministry function.  God gave every leader he called their specific assignments. Yes, it's challenging, but when you're doing ministry with God's hand on your life, God will let you know when to get away and refresh as Jesus did. Remember, our aim is to leave here empty because your gift is not needed in heaven. 

~ Dr. William L. Moore

"Always make your Wife and kids a priority over the Church, reason being you were appointed the Pastor of your family before you were appointed a Pastor of others. 

Be sure to take time for yourself in the Word of GOD not just to prepare for preaching and teaching others but so that your soul can be renewed and refreshed. 

~Veteran, Pastor Abdule Finner- 14 years

"To every young pastor stepping into the call of ministry, know that you were chosen for such a time as this. The road may not always be easy, but your obedience will bear fruit in ways you can't yet imagine, stay rooted in prayer, grounded in the word, and never lose sight of the people God has entrusted you to care."

~Veteran Pastor-24 years

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