It’s July—and August is coming fast. That means most churches are already preparing their 2026 budgets.
Before you finalize the numbers, here’s something every church leader should pause and consider:
If a staff member was earning $40,000 in 2020, they’d need $49,700 today just to keep up with inflation.
That’s not a raise. That’s survival. Groceries. Gas. Rent. Insurance. The basics.
Yet across multiple states, I’ve sat with faithful pastors and church staff—full-time and covocational—who have:
Gone 4+ years without a raise
Taken a pay cut so the church could afford Sunday School materials
Sacrificed so others could be paid or the lights could stay on
Why do they stay?
Because they love Jesus.
Because they love their people.
But love shouldn’t equal poverty.
What Happens When We Ignore It?
Personally: Stress rises. Savings disappear. Retirement dreams fade.
Pastorally: Ministry vision shrinks under financial pressure.
Congregationally: Great leaders leave. New ones hesitate to come. Ministry momentum stalls.
We Can—and Must—Do Better
This isn’t about luxury or waste.
This is about honoring those who carry the spiritual weight of your church—week after week.
So when you sit down with spreadsheets and calculators this month, remember:
✅ Your team isn’t just an expense—they’re your front-line gospel partners.
✅ A living wage isn’t generosity—it’s responsibility.
✅ If they’re not valued now, don’t be surprised if they burn out… or walk out later.
Let’s get this right.
For their sake. For your church’s future. For the Kingdom.
Need help thinking through your church's leadership structure or budgeting strategy? Let's talk.
