The Eagle’s Nest Effect in the Pastoral Career

Abstract

The research involved surveying active pastors of the Reformed Church in Hungary through an online tool between 2 May and 18 June 2023. In our current analysis, we included pastors with active status in Hungary (N = 681). In this study, we looked at the mental health of those in their first five years of ministry compared to those who have served longer. In terms of well-being, there is a higher proportion of pastors at risk among those who have served for 1–5 years. In this essay, we explore the possible causes of this phenomenon and formulate hypotheses for further research. We discuss the challenges and complexities faced by pastors in contemporary society, highlighting the changing roles and expectations within the church. The findings suggest that pastors often experience fatigue, emotional challenges, and conflicting expectations. The diversity of pastoral roles, evolving societal norms, and the pastor’s evolving identity contribute to the complexity of their responsibilities. This paper identifies different phases in the pastor’s journey, from initial exposure to pastoral life to assuming the role professionally. It emphasizes that becoming a pastor is not just learning a role but a transformation of one’s identity and a continuous integration of faith into everyday life. Keywords: pastor, early career, well-being, quantitative survey