PORTLAND, OR — There’s no question this has been one of the most difficult years in history, and pastors and church leaders have not been immune to this pain, according to the Luis Palau Association.

The ministry reports many are struggling to keep perspective, stay encouraged, and lead their churches well. In an effort to bring unique encouragement and support to pastors during this difficult time, the Luis Palau Association is hosting a free online pastor’s gathering on October 29 called re:news talks.

The Luis Palau Association is seeking to address some of the most challenging issues US church leaders are facing in the midst of such unprecedented times.

In an effort to bring unique encouragement and support to pastors the ministry is hosting a free online pastor’s gathering called re:new Talks.

The Palau Association’s President Kevin Palau says the combination of racial tensions, the divisions surrounding the US election on top of the Covid-19 pandemic are forcing many pastors to even step down.

“You hear of some pastors they are resigning or have been forced out over tensions and disagreements so for a few people it goes all the way to the point of major crisis. Some research done here by the Barna group would indicate that as many as 20% of churches in the US there’s some danger of them closing their doors in the next year for financial reasons related to Covid so I think there’s a tidal wave of church closures potentially coming.”

Palau explains more about re:news Talks and how they hope it will enable leaders to overcome these many challenges.

“To just be encouraged by listening to fellow pastors commiserate, pray with them and talk about the realities that we’re facing so that’s the hope that re:news Talks will fortify and encourage pastors. Give them what they need to just carry on another day, week, month in a season where they may feel very unsure of themselves.”

He concluded by sharing this advice for those in church leadership.

“Find pastors and other leaders within your church and especially outside your church that you can be brutally honest with and share your heart and concern and pray with someone. And don’t take a step that you may regret later. Seek the Lord, spend time with Him. Recognize that this season will pass eventually and that there’s a remarkable opportunity for us to seek the Lord and experience the freedom of the Holy Spirit in our lives.”

ABOUT THE LUIS PALAU ASSOCIATION — For more than 60 years the Luis Palau Association has existed to proclaim the Good News, unite the Church, and impact cities worldwide. In addition to citywide evangelistic festivals and an ever-growing global network of evangelists, the team also uses a far-reaching media ministry including online Bible training and daily radio shows on 5,539 radio outlets in 59 countries and a social media community of nearly 20 million followers hearing daily Gospel messages and encouragement. The Palau Association has had the opportunity to work with thousands of churches in hundreds of cities around the world, including nine top global cities: London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Chicago, Moscow, Madrid, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, and Washington D.C. They also have strong international experience with extensive ethnic and cultural understanding.

CONTACT: Jay Fordice, 503-614-1572

Read more news on Christian Ministry and the COVID-19 Pandemic on Missions Box.

GFA’s Statement About Coronavirus