Clergy Killer US Films has released a documentary entitled - TopicsExpress

Clergy Killer US Films has released a documentary entitled “Betrayed: A Clergy Killer’s DNA.” The film exposes a modern phenomenon that has been labeled by theologians, psychologists, and sociologists as “The Clergy Killer Syndrome” which is responsible for approximately 1,500 clergy leaving the ministry every month. The film contends that an evil force has taken root in the church and manifests itself in the harsh and disrespectful way many clergy are treated by some members of the congregation. This is often referred to as bullying. A small number of parishioners grow dissatisfied (or feel their power is threatened) by the pastor. They begin an intentional campaign to discourage the pastor, disrupt the church, and create enough ill will that the Pastor is either forced out or simply decides to leave the church. According to the film, nearly 50% of congregations worldwide either have experienced or are experiencing this “Clergy Killer Phenomenon.” You can check out the trailer of the film online. I have not yet seen the film, but I have done some research on the rising number of clergy in America who feel discouraged and frustrated and are leaving the ministry to pursue other career interests because they have experienced a great deal of dysfunction and conflict within the local church. I do think part of the issue is that there really is a force of evil (the Devil) who is at work to disrupt the work of God and discourage those who are called to serve in vocational ministry. The Bible tells us we wage war with spiritual forces of evil and wickedness, and we know that those who serve in leadership positions within the church can be vulnerable to spiritual attack. I have heard very sad stories about clergy who were victimized by a small number of church members who seem to be overly harsh and critical, intentionally disruptive, and unapologetically hateful and divisive. There is some truth to this “Clergy Killer Phenomenon." But I also wonder if it is wise for clergy to paint themselves purely as victims of unhealthy and power-hungry church members who are motivated by spiritual evil. Clergy today need to spend a lot of time in prayer, which will fortify the soul to withstand the onslaught of spiritual attack. Clergy today need to engage in physical disciplines (eating healthy, getting adequate sleep, exercising to reduce stress and increase energy) so they can maintain a positive attitude in a sometimes negative environment. Clergy today need to remember we follow and serve a savior who was persecuted and nailed to a cross. And on a very practical level, we clergy need to learn some basic leadership skills that enable us to cast a compelling vision, proclaim truth with authentic passion, and deal with conflict directly and openly. Conflict doesn’t kill clergy. What leads clergy to get discouraged and drop out of ministry is conflict that is not addressed properly or handled effectively. There have been several occasions here at Ebenezer when I have received word that someone is angry with me, or upset with a decision, or spreading rumors that are either untrue or only partially true. On those occasions I have learned it is best to just pick up the telephone and contact that person and engage in an open and honest conversation. I also try to make it clear that anyone can approach me and ask me any question or discuss any issue that is going on here at the church. Engaging in candid, open conversation with an attitude of respect typically diffuses a small disagreement before it grows into a big problem. Unfortunately, many clergy prefer to ignore issues and refrain from difficult conversations. This gives evil a foothold and allows problems to fester and become worse. Creating a leadership environment that is open and honest, but also not willing to tolerate bullying and gossip is a primary responsibility of pastoral ministry, and it is a skill set that must be developed and practiced. Last week, I attended Annual Conference (the annual meeting of United Methodist Pastors and Lay Delegates in Virginia). At this meeting I was re-appointed to serve Ebenezer Church for another year. This will be year 19, unusually long for any denomination, but especially so in the United Methodist Church. I have not always led this church well, and I still make mistakes. But I am thankful for a congregation of people that is loving, supportive, and patient with me. I do experience periods of discouragement and frustration in ministry, but my sense is that this is true of every vocation and not unique to ministry. Bottom line - I don’t ever want to see myself as a victim of any “Clergy Killer.” I see it as my responsibility to stay spiritually connected to the Lord, humble and teachable, and quick to address any potential conflicts while they are in the early stages. That may not eliminate all of the problems brought up by the documentary film, but I think it goes a long way in the right direction. --Pastor Mark P.S. You can also check out my blog at markmillerblog. My most recent post is entitled, “How to Forgive."