Abstract

ALSEMGEEST, Liezel; SCHOEMAN, Kobus  and  SWART, Theo. Imminent retirement: Pastors' experience of their congregation, personal well-being and finances. STJ [online]. 2016, vol.2, n.2, pp.93-110. ISSN 2413-9467.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17570/stj.2016.v2n2.a05.

The provisions of pastors to congregations is of great importance to the Dutch Reformed Church and its congregation. To retire is a complex process of transition affecting various aspects - among others psychological, spiritual and financial aspects. According to current estimates, more than half of the full-time pastors in the Dutch Reformed Church could retire within the next fifteen years. A quantitative online survey was conducted amongst pastors who will retire in the near future, their experience of their congregation, personal well-being and financial prospects before and during retirement was taken into account. For the first time research provides insight into what will happen in churches when a pastor retires. The information should provide valid conclusions and recommendations can be made regarding the demand for pastors (and students?) in order to plan for effective ministry within churches.

Keywords : pastors; retirement; finances; well-being; Dutch Reformed Church.

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