Compensation for interim pastor Apr 10, 2025 · The average salary for an Interim Pastor is $103,553 per year or $50 per hour in United States, which is in line with the national average. Nov 7, 2023 · The average salary for a Pastor at Baptist Church is $49,008 in 2025. The congregation should pay an interim $30 for pastoral care and office hours plus the supply fee. If you’re a lay church leader, you must determine the staff’s compensation. Jan 8, 2025 · The interim pastor’s total compensation package may be negotiated based on (a) a base salary appropriate for his/her years of ordained experience according to the synod compensation guidelines, (b) the base salary of the departed pastor, or (c) other pertinent factors unique to the congregation’s situation such as utilizing a part time Aug 26, 2022 · Curious about what pastors earn? Our comprehensive guide dives into church salaries across various roles, from senior pastors to youth pastors. Base Salary (USD) $86,426/year What is the average salary for a Pastor at Interim Pastor Ministries in the United States? Based on our data, it appears that the optimal compensation range for a Pastor at Interim Pastor Ministries is between $71,477 and $96,996, with an average salary of $86,426. May 17, 2025 · The average annual Situational Salary for Interim Pastor is estimated to be approximately $83,364 per year. It provides a flexible and transparent way to calculate pay in proportion to a full-time pastoral role. Washington is the highest paying state for Pastor jobs. We are currently looking for an interim pastor to serve for a year while we search for a full-term pastor. NC Conference of the United Methodist Church These policies have been developed as a means of providing a uniform set of compensation and personnel policies to guide the Cabinet in their relationships with their pastors. Jul 6, 2025 · The average annual Evergreen Association Of American Baptist Churches Salary for Interim Pastor is estimated to be approximately $89,017 per year. How much does a Pastor make? The average annual salary of Pastor in North Carolina is $103,587 or $47 per hour, ranging from $71,614 to $131,411 and $33 to $60. Pastor Salary: The compensation accorded to a pastor, which may be specified in the interim pastor agreement. If an interim pastor is being hired and required to commute from another community, consideration should be given to increasing the salary to offset these costs. Get paid what you're worth! Preface Explanation of Compensation Charts Lump Sum Congregation Location Adjustment Supply Pastors and Deacons Synod Authorized Ministers (Awaiting Assignment) Interim Pastors Synod Authorized Ministers (Assigned) Worksheets Word & Sacrament Salary Chart Word & Service Salary Chart Example of Word & Sacrament with Housing Allowance Example of Word & Sacrament with a Parsonage Page 2 Page 2 “A retired pastor or pastor on leave from call who serves an interim ministry is recommended by the bishop and signs an interim ministry agreement [covenant] with the congregation which provides for the compensation, benefits, and the specific goals and expectations related to the period of interim ministry. A fulltime interim minister should receive the equivalent to the previous minister’s salary along with all the housing and benefits that the previous minister received. The gospel calls all Christians to be ministers in word and deed. Developing a compensation package for pastors and church staff can seem daunting. Churches and individuals should consult with qualified professionals, such as accountants, legal counsel, or denominational leadership, before making compensation To that end, NCP offers grants, scholarships and other resources to congregations, pastors and lay leaders. The majority pay is between $68,969 to $93,515 per year. Paul spoke about this relationship in 1 Corinthians 9 Key Concepts & Definitions Interim Pastor Agreement: A formal contract between a church and a pastor hired temporarily usually during a transition period. The majority pay is between $76,268 to $99,880 per year. Learn how to set fair expectations, determine appropriate pay, and use our free calculator to start the conversation with clarity and grace. Interim Pastor Our ministry comes from Christ through the church and belongs to the whole people of God. Furnished housing, utilities, and internet service are included in this 80%. It should be understood that when a person agrees to serve as interim An open and frank discussion about the salary needs of the pastor should not be a difficult or uncomfortable experience for either party. Learn what Scripture says about compensation and gain valuable insights for your pastoral journey. Aug 9, 2016 · Paying your interim the salary you paid your last preacher is fair for small, medium, and large congregations. The purpose of this document is to provide fair and equitable compensation for rostered ministers and lay A transitional pastor differs from an interim pastor. Ideally, we would like our interim pastor to be able to fulfill many of the pastoral duties that our current pastor performs, with the understanding that increased responsibility merits increased compensation. Interim pastors serve congregations as they transition to new pastoral leadership or a new season of the congregation (such as shared ministry). What is a fair pastor salary these days? You need to look at location, ministry role, and church size to determine what to pay your pastors. Pastor Salaries by State. Decoration Are intended to be minimum guidelines. This can be a very positive and productive time for your congregation. How much should you pay your church staff? This church compensation and salary guide shows exactly how much pastors make and why it matters. Top 65 Highest Paying States for Interim Pastor Jobs in the U. 3%) above Interim Pastor Compensation Calculator This tool is designed to help churches determine an appropriate compensation package for an Interim Pastor based on the responsibilities expected and the number of hours typically worked each week. 50 KB Created: 21-02-2023 Updated: 21-02-2023 Apply to anyone who is serving as an Authorized Minister Good in a Local Church of the Wisconsin Conference, including: part-time settled pastors, interim Plants pastors, designated term pastors, solo pastors, senior pastors, co-pastors, shared ministry pastors, and associate or assistant pastors. Learn about average salaries for pastors in churches of all sizes and locations. As a rule of thumb, a church should pay an interim 80% of the total compensation the church would budget for its next pastor. The average annual salary of Interim Pastor Ministries is estimated to be approximate $87,253 per year. Compensation Schedule for Rostered Ministers, Pastoral Supply, and Interim Pastors 2024-2025 The terms of the employment relationships between rostered ministers and their employers shall be detailed using an ELCIC Employment Agreement. Thirty days notice shall be given in writing by Compensation and Benefits - The Pastor’s compensation shall be established through the church’s budgetary process and will be negotiated between the Pastor and the Board of Directors. Explore real data and tips to set fair pay for church staff. Pastor Salary Guidelines Pastor Salary Guidelines File size: 38. Interim and Intentional Interim Ministers: The interim minister will serve a church during situations that demand specialized skills, training, and responsibilities. It is designed to be used to determine the initial compensation and subsequent adjustments to the compensation for pastors, copastors, pastors in yoked churches, associate pastors, intentional interim pastors, temporary pastors and part-time pastors who are serving in churches of Frequently Asked Questions - Intentional Interim Ministries: equipping and sending pastors to serve during the interim, a challenging time for many churches. Introduction This section of the Manual presents the Pastor Compensation Policy for the Presbytery of East Iowa. Acknowledgements This Manual for Interim Ministry in the Massachusetts Conference of the United Church of Christ has been developed by the Interim Ministry Committee of the Commission on Leadership Development in response to resolutions approved by delegates to the General Synod of the United Church of Christ and the Annual Meeting of the Massachusetts Conference of UCC. Business expenses, for which a pastor is reimbursed, would not be included as a part of the pastor's Total Compensation. The majority pay is between $73,650 to $99,862 per year. A full-time interim pastor should receive a full-time salary and benefit package based on the congregation’s current budget and the compensation of the previous pastor. The whole church ministers as it celebrates God’s presence, shares good news, cares for those in need and witnesses to the How much does a Pastor make? The average annual salary of Pastor in the United States is $109,004 or $52 per hour, ranging from $75,359 to $138,284 and $36 to $66. These policies provide a compensation There are basically three overarching ways to structure an interim ministry: “full-time interim ministry,” “part-time interim ministry,” and “basic fee for services” interim ministry. During a time when the members are anxious about the future of the church, the interim or transitional pastor strives to be a “non-anxious” presence for the congregation. We’ve identified 15 states where the typical salary for an Interim Pastor job is above the national average. 2025 Pastor Compensation Report Interim Pastor Covenant Fillable Form Supply Pastor Covenant Fillable Form Commissioned Ruling Elder (CRE) Covenant Parish Associate Covenant Installation Services Planning your Installation and the Administrative Commission Planning your Ordination and Installation and the Administrative Commission Jun 15, 2019 · Call Process When your congregation’s regularly called pastor leaves, it enters into the “interim period” – a time for saying goodbye, reflecting on your faith community’s past and discerning God’s purpose for future ministry, and calling a new spiritual leader to guide the congregation into this new season. Real Estate: Property matters might be relevant when Mar 10, 2024 · The following Compensation and Professional Expense Guidelines for Pastors, Deacons, Lay Professionals, Support Staff and Church Musicians: A Congregational Resource is just that – a guideline for congregational leaders as you pray, think about, and discuss compensation for church staff. Learn about salary trends, cost-of-living differences, and benefits for church employees. Intentional interims, with specialized training, are appointed when there is a need to attend to conflict or move a congregation through a major change. ” Protection Coverages: A portion of the Interim Minister’s Compensation, at his discretion, may be designated as Insurance and/or Annuity and/or Housing Allowance. A May 25, 2025 · ELCA Definition of Compensation and Benefits for a Pastor Instructions for Completing the Definition of Compensation and Benefits Form for a Pastor This form is completed when a pastor is being called and reflects the compensation offered to a pastor at the time of call. Full-time Senior and Solo Pastors Full-time Associate/Assistant Pastors Full-time Interim Pastors The average INTERIM PASTOR SALARY in the United States as of October 2025 is $29. Apr 22, 2024 · Discover where your church stands in terms of pastor salary based on size. Grants and scholarships are only available to National Capital Presbytery congregations, emerging congregations and individual leaders of NCP congregations and emerging congregations. New York beats the national average by 9. 28 an hour or $60,902 per year. Jan 28, 2025 · Note: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Legal Forms: Pertinent documents required to formalize the agreement legally. Salary recommendations and ranges may vary based on denomination, church size, geographic location, and other factors. New Brunswick is the lowest paying State for Pastor jobs. Jan 13, 2020 · A Guide for Pastors Many ministers have devoted their lives to matters of faith and spiritual health. Full time implies five to six working days per week, including Sundays; part time generally Compensation for an Intentional Interim Pastor shall be in accordance with arrange-ments made in consultation with the bishop’s office, the Intentional Interim Pastor, and the Congregation Council. Intentional Interim Ministry Process - Intentional Interim Ministries: equipping and sending pastors to serve during the interim, a challenging time for many churches. " The transitional pastor ministry is a guided process that prepares the congregation to receive a new pastor. To that end, NCP offers grants, scholarships and other resources to congregations, pastors and lay leaders. These persons serve in the time between when a pastor leaves and a new pastor is called by the congregations. 4. But your experience dealing with salaries and benefits packages may be limited. Oct 15, 2025 · Talking about money with a potential interim pastor can be uncomfortable—but it’s essential. Talking about money can be a difficult conversation for anyone, but it can be even harder for people who serve God. So it is the privilege of every Christian to be a steward of the gospel of God’s reconciling love. These policies are required for all appointed Pastors, Associate Pastors, Student Local Pastors, Supply Pastors and Interim Pastors. Whether you're considering a career in ministry or just interested in understanding the financial aspects of church leadership, this article is for you. A retired pastor or pastor on leave from call who serves an interim ministry is recommended by the bishop and signs an interim ministry agreement with the congregation which provides for the compensation, benefits, and the specific goals and expectations related to the period of interim ministry. The congregation pays mileage at the current IRS rate. Establish an interim ministry/transitional team (Pastoral Relations Committee or other group) to serve as a confidential support and advisory group for the interim pastor, to monitor progress in accomplishing the developmental tasks and to act as a link between the pastor and the congregation. Oct 13, 2016 · The Contract Pastor’s compensation is negotiated between the pastor and the Congregation Council and stated in the Contract for Pastoral Ministry agreement. 4%, and Washington furthers that trend with another $8,076 (13. Visit PayScale to research pastor salaries by city, experience, skill, employer and more. You’ll pay your next preacher as much, or more than you paid your last preacher. Oct 13, 2025 · Find pastor salary ranges based on church size, budget, and position. Apr 18, 2018 · Compensation planning provides benefits to both churches and pastors in several financial and tax-related areas. These guidelines serve as minimum compensation recommendations for specialized ministry in the North Carolina Synod, including for Supply Pastors/Deacons, Synod Authorized Minister (SAM) Candidates (those awaiting calls), lay pastors, Interim Pastors, and Appointed SAMs. Top earners have reported making up to $172,133 (90th percentile). Find out how much pastors and church staff make in 2025. Sep 1, 2025 · How much does a Pastor make? The average annual salary of Pastor in Virginia is $109,767 or $53 per hour, ranging from $75,887 to $139,252 and $37 to $67. However, twenty-four months shall be considered the maximum time for the interim period. Topping the list is Washington, with District of Columbia and New York close behind in second and third. Visit Salary. Factors to consider with minister compensation such as whether to issue a W-2 or 1099 and putting a cap on compensation. It is agreed that this Covenant-Contract shall be in effect for twelve months or sixty days following the extension of a call to a minister elect, whichever comes first, after which time it can be extended up to the time of the start-up of the new pastor. Avg. Such coverage should be agreed upon according to the Interim Minister’s personal needs, tax status, and current IRS guidelines so as to best benefit the Interim Pastor. S. Summary of 2025 Guidelines There are a few additions to these guidelines. com to find out more. 4 TOTAL COMPENSATION = the sum of Cash Salary, Housing Allowance, and Benefits. The church is well advised to call an interim pastor or a transitional pastor to help the church move through the transition from pastor to pastor. Full-time ministry and part-time ministry focus on the number of working days per week for the pastor. The following guidelines (found in the synod’s policy Compensation for Pulpit Supply and Interim Ministry) are instructive for determining fair compensation. As the Intentional Interim Pastor is called to serve the congregation just as a permanent pastor would serve, but for a mutually agreed upon time of service, the congregation should follow the guidelines herein to determine appropriate compensation for the Interim Pastor. The church has a responsibility to provide a fair and adequate salary for their pastor and the pastor has a responsibility to serve the church faithfully. Interim Pastors: Interim pastors are contracted with the congregation. Aug 5, 2024 · Salary: The minimum salary figures for 2025 voted at the 2024 Annual Conference are: Full-time Elder, Deacon, Provisional Elder or Deacon, or Associate Member Full-time Local Pastor with completed Master of Divinity or Advanced Course of Study Full-time Local Pastor with completed Course of Study or Equivalent Full-time Local Add the following amounts for additional years of service: at the . The role of the interim pastor is often viewed simply as someone who will preach when a church is without a pastor. We have added information relating to supply pastors, interim pastors, stated supply pastor, and the like. What is the average annual salary for a Pastor job by State? See how much a Pastor job pays hourly by State. com to find out Interim Pastor Ministries salary, Interim Pastor Ministries pay rate, and more. A transitional pastor does more than simply "fill the pulpit. qpt ehnmu lyadwu dafxi tvdhv nrup uupjg miud oeyerd xpmfh gac cetwltu fak dvkwsnk oyr