In this sobering episode of The Substance of Faith Podcast, Rudy Swigart explores the hidden pressures crushing pastors across the United States—and why pastoral care isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
From endless hours and constant crisis management to burnout, depression, infidelity, and addiction—today’s pastors are struggling. Some in silence. Some until collapse.
Drawing from credible research, Rudy lays out the alarming statistics that too many churches ignore:
75% of pastors report severe stress-related crises
40% face high burnout risk
35% battle depression
Many face addiction, infidelity, and moral failure—not due to weak character, but from unrelenting pressure with no real support
This episode casts a bold vision for what healthy church leadership can look like when congregations and church boards step up to protect the shepherds, not just the sheep.
The quiet epidemic: why pastoral burnout is at record highs
Why addiction and moral failure often trace back to exhaustion and isolation
Real-world strategies for creating safe leadership environments
Why pastoral care is essential to the church’s long-term health
Practical steps every church can take to protect their pastors
A plea to church boards, leaders, and congregants: “What are you doing to care for those who care for your soul?”
“Pastors are human. If your church doesn’t protect your pastor’s health, you’re not protecting your church’s future.”
📬 Resources & Contact:
🌐 www.substanceoffaithmedia.com
📧 rudy@substanceoffaithmedia.com
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