The Congregational Effects of a Struggling Economy

While teaching the transcendent and metaphysical, churches are still somewhat dependent on the material. The NYT today articulates this unfortunate truth, as the current economic conditions are forcing churches to lay off, to cut back, or to freeze hiring, thus affecting the livelihoods of pastors and trained clergy. Money quote:

A contracting national economy has led congregations across the religious spectrum to cut or downsize clergy positions, hire part-time laity instead and delay filling existing vacancies. Veteran clergy, watching their retirement accounts wither, are postponing retirement.