Pastor Abusers: When Sheep Attack Their Shepherd

by Kent Crockett

Who are the pastor abusers? They are mean-spirited church members who criticize and bully their pastor with the goal of forcing him out of the church. While most church members are supportive of their minister, pastor abusers are usually only a small group, and are often running the church.Can anything be done to stop them? What can a pastor do when he is under attack? What are the minister's options after being fired or forced out of the church? Pastor Abusers is a survival manual for pastors, explaining what is happening behind the scenes and the driving forces behind the attacks.Over 30 abused pastors were interviewed and their quotes are listed in every chapter. Helpful advice is given, instructing pastors how to respond to the harassment. This book lists the pastor's four options after leaving the church, along with a listing of ministry and secular job websites.

193 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[James Rasbeary · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very helpful book for pastors, especially younger pastors who will no doubt be shocked by the behavior of certain people within any given church. Written across denominational lines, it shows how pastor abusers are the same no matter what kind of church they inhabit. I certainly don't agree with everything in the book or even some of their suggestions at the end, but I gave it 5 stars because it is unique in describing situations and people that have often ended pastoral ministries. I have given copies to friends, especially those who have been going through trouble in their churches.

[Rebekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone who is a member of a church needs to read this book. Chances are good that you either are or know a pastor abuser. If you're a pastor you need to be aware. If you're a parishioner you need to stand in the way of the abuse of God's servants.

[Nate Bate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was recommended to me by a man who is about 15 years ahead of me in pastoral ministry. I have never been abused during my pastoral ministry; however, I have experienced some abusive treatment that could have developed into formal abuse. Thankfully, the person/people were prevented/stopped in one way or another. I don't think I have read another book that looks honestly at how a pastor can handle abusive treatment; so, that makes me thankful for this book. I'm sure there are others, and I am just not aware of them.

This book is fairly comprehensive and it sites its sources for further study. I think some more attention needs to be given to this topic. In seminary, I don't recall being taught how to have healthy expectations for how a church treats you and what to do about it if you are not being treated properly. Maybe I just have not been paying attention.

[Jonathan Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whilst very American, this book is relevant to the UK.

This book would be particularly helpful for a pastor who is experiencing a pressure group (usually small) of church members or leaders.

It would be good to read if you are thinking of resigning or being forced out.

I’d like to see something written for the UK context.

Finally, it is sad that we need this book.

[Timogi]

A must-read for anyone in ministry especially clergy.