New Report Explores How Nazarene Congregations and Clergy Have Been Impacted by COVID-19
Note: to view larger versions of the charts below, click on the images directly to access the full report.
A new report from the Church of the Nazarene explores how congregations in their denomination were impacted by the pandemic in 2020.
Results are based on 2,191 clergy responses (representing a 10.1% response rate from the 21,716 churches surveyed) collected between early October and late November 2020.
Summary of Key Findings
Despite challenging conditions, the majority of Nazarene congregations worldwide are adjusting to the conditions presented by the pandemic.
The financial viability of many Nazarene congregations, particularly those with a smaller worship size, has been put at risk by the pandemic.
While the pandemic has not impeded the ability of most Nazarene clergy to continue in ministry, one in ten expressed that it is proving difficult.
Overall, Nazarene clergy feel optimistic about the future and are confident that their congregations will emerge stronger from the pandemic.
Financial Impact
A majority of pastors agreed (69.4%) that the pandemic has put the financial viability of their congregation at risk.
Variations by region and worship size were statistically significant, with the Mesoamerica Region most likely to agree (90.7%), while the USA/Canada region was the most likely to disagree (46.5%).
The smaller the worship size of the congregation, the more likely they were to agree that the pandemic has put their financial viability at risk.
Ministry Impact
When asked whether the ministries of their congregation face an uncertain future due to the pandemic, respondents were divided evenly between those who agreed (50.6%) and those who disagreed (49.4%).
A majority of pastors agreed (57.3%) that the ministries of their congregation continue without major disruption. However, less than 10% strongly agreed.
A large majority of pastors agreed (88.1%) that their congregation has identified and embraced new opportunities for ministry since the pandemic.
Clergy Impact
When asked if the pandemic is making it difficult for them to continue in ministry, a majority of pastors disagreed (69.5%). Only 4.1% strongly agreed with this statement.
A large majority of pastors agreed (84.5%) that the pandemic has given their ministry new significance.
For a more comprehensive look at the findings of this study, please visit the link below.
