A Minister is a religious leader who preaches and cares for the members of their congregation. Their role is a complex blend of spiritual calling, educational qualifications, and practical experience. Ministers are a keystone in the promotion of faith, community, and service. This page aims to provide an in-depth overview of their daily responsibilities, and to help those seeking career aspirations understand the depth of commitment required for this esteemed position.

Ministers are responsible for preaching, teaching, pastoral care, community outreach, evangelistic missions, and leadership development. They must also maintain a spiritual depth that serves as a model for the community and a source of wisdom and inspiration. This often means regular prayer, study, and reflection. Ministers must also be able to relate to the various challenges faced by their congregation. This can include caring for those who are experiencing family and relationship issues, grief, sexuality, mental health, and end of life challenges.

There are a wide range of ministerial titles. At one end of the spectrum, a minister might have very little power and be basically just a spokesperson: they give speeches, hand out novelty cheques, commemorate, announce, and open various things. At the other end, a Minister can oversee entire government departments, and have significant administrative influence over thousands of public servants and billions of dollars. This is a particularly powerful role in countries that have a strong parliamentary democracy. The Bible sets out specific criteria for those who serve as overseers (Ministers of the Church) and deacons (Ministers of Hospitality). They are to be above reproach, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, and able to teach (1 Timothy 3:1-7). These roles are not easy to fill.