Stuck
Sociologist Todd Ferguson of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor speaks about "Stuck: Why Clergy Are Alienated from their Calling, Congregation, and Career . . . And What to Do About It." The lecture was sponsored by the Gaede Institute for the Liberal Arts, the Westmont Sociology and Religious Studies Departments, and the Westmont Campus Pastor's Office.
Stuck: Why Clergy Are Alienated from Their Calling, Congregation, and Career
This book by Todd W. Ferguson and Josh Packard addresses the growing disconnect between traditional ministry approaches and the modern challenges faced by clergy. The authors argue that while clergy still maintain faith in their calling, the conventional congregational model often leads to feelings of isolation and burnout, due to its focus on institutional maintenance over spiritual growth and authentic connection. Ferguson and Packard propose a shift in focus from individual traits of pastors to the structural forces affecting ministry today. The book explores how outdated models can alienate clergy and calls for a reevaluation of pastoral roles, suggesting that ministry should evolve to align with contemporary realities. Key insights include the need for flexible congregational support, redefined training for clergy, and an understanding of ministry that transcends traditional structures. The authors aim to empower clergy by highlighting the systemic issues within ministry, encouraging congregations to offer better support, and inspiring seminaries to adapt their training programs. "Stuck" is recommended for anyone interested in understanding and transforming the landscape of modern ministry.
About Todd W. Ferguson
Todd W. Ferguson is a sociologist at Rice University in Houston, Texas. His research focuses on congregations and their clergy. He earned his Ph.D. from Baylor University and a Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School.
About Josh Packard
Dr. Josh Packard is an accomplished researcher and speaker on young people in America, specializing in their spirituality and their relationship with religious groups and faith leaders. He was the founding ED of Springtide Research Institute, and is the well-published author of numerous academic articles, reviews, and the books Church Refugees: Sociologists reveal why people are DONE with church but not their faith, Stuck: Why Clergy Are Alienated from Their Calling, Congregation, and Career ... and What to Do about It, Meaning Making: 8 Values That Drive America's Newest Generations and The Emerging Church: Religion at the Margins.