Pastors Need Time for People in Their Schedule.

Balancing projects and people is tough. Ministry work is full of demands. It’s easy to get caught up in tasks that keep us busy but distant from those we serve. I believe pastors need time for people; not just during structured events but in the everyday rhythms of life.

Pastors Need Time for People Beyond Sunday

Locking ourselves in an office all week won’t reflect how Jesus engaged with people. He definitely had times of solitude, and times with his core group of disciples. However, he was also among the people; teaching, healing, and walking alongside them in their daily lives.

If Jesus made time for personal connection, how much more should we?

The reality is, that during a church service or special event, so many people show up at once. It’s nearly impossible to develop deep, authentic relationships in those moments. A quick handshake or small talk in the lobby won’t build the kind of trust and pastoral care people need.

Church 101: Relationships Over Roles

Common practice suggests that if a pastor trains more volunteers, he can increase his impact. This is absolutely true, and can help ministry logistics thrive! However, it will never replace personal relationships. People don’t just want to know what the pastor does; they want to know who he is.

Having a strong team is important, but delegating tasks won’t deepen relationships. Real relationships happen outside the pulpit. A pastor should have scheduled availability for coffee chats or phone calls, even Zoom calls if that’s the person’s preference.

Now, depending on the size of the church, there may need to be multiple pastors at a given location. An increase in congregation size leads to an increase in the number of pastors. That being said, everyone should have the opportunity to meet with a pastor. In smaller churches, meet with the pastor.

Making Time for People in Ministry

Ministry workers should also evaluate their schedules honestly; not just pastors. Is there dedicated time set aside just for people? Not for meetings, strategy, or planning; just for being present with them? Especially members of your volunteer teams!

Whether it’s grabbing coffee, going for a walk, or visiting someone’s home, these informal moments foster real connection. Everyone who serves in ministry leadership should be aware of this intentional connection (dare I say it) “strategy” for discipleship.

Jesus modelled this beautifully.

He took time for individuals in ways that weren’t always strategic but were always meaningful. His schedule wasn’t just filled with projects; it was filled with people.

• He paused to talk with the woman at the well (John 4:7-26).
• He called Zacchaeus down from the tree to share a meal (Luke 19:1-10).
• He welcomed little children (Mark 10:13-16).

We have to be intentional.

We have to carve out space in our calendars for relational moments. Schedule work time in a public setting, like a coffee shop, to show availability to the community. While efficiency is important for accomplishing the plans and projects God has called us to. Being present for the people He has placed in our care is just as important, if not more.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• How has a personal meeting with a pastor or ministry worker impacted your life?
• What are some ways pastors can be more intentional about spending time with people?
• If a pastor declined to meet with you, how would that affect your connection to the church?