New Resource For Pastors In Debt

A new resource has opened up, for pastors who find themselves in debt.

Christian debt counselling charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) and financing agency Stewardship Services have teamed up to provide a new service to help church leaders who find themselves in personal financial difficulties.

CAP Money Ministers is a free service, offering non-judgemental and confidential telephone support for senior church leaders who find themselves struggling to deal with the pressure of low salaries and high expectations.

CAP's Chief Executive Matt Barlow explained: “We know there is a problem because we already have church leaders coming to us as clients. They are often paid very little or their pay can fluctuate. Often there are unfair expectations placed upon our church leaders and admitting any vulnerability can be so hard.

"Ideally, struggling church leaders would attend a CAP Money course at their local church or visit one of our debt help centres. However, we know the reality is they would most likely feel very exposed if they could get there at all with the number of midweek meetings expected of them.”

Stewardship’s Chief Executive, Michael O'Neill, said it was conversations with ministers that had prompted the organisation to take action.

He said: “We are passionate about seeing the UK Church generously resourced.

"However, we often hear from church leaders who lack confidence in their own finances and in their ability to speak confidently about money with others.

"That’s why we are so thrilled to be partnering with CAP to launch CAP Money Ministers; a service which we hope will release hundreds of church leaders from financial worry and, in doing so, free them to do the same for their congregations.”

Ministers who find themselves in need of the service can get more information about it through the CAP Money Ministers website.