03/10/2026
THE NEED FOR PREACHERS IS REAL
Right now, there are roughly 350–400 congregations searching for a preacher listed on job boards such as the listings at epreacher.org and similar ministry sites. Many congregations are small. Some are large. Many are simply waiting and praying for a faithful man who will open God’s Word and preach the gospel.
That number has remained consistently near 375 open preaching positions over the past couple of years.
The harvest is still plentiful. But the laborers are few (Matthew 9:37).
Practical Ways Churches Can Encourage the Next Generation of Preachers
• Encourage young men spiritually. Elders, preachers, and mature Christians should intentionally encourage capable young men to consider preaching. Sometimes a simple word of confidence can change a life.
• Start training boys early. Let them read Scripture publicly, lead prayers, serve, and present short devotionals. Give them opportunities to stand up and speak.
• Put them in the regular rotation. Confidence and ability grow through repetition and responsibility.
• Mentor young and middle-aged men. Let them shadow elders, deacons, and preachers—hospital visits, Bible studies, counseling, sermon preparation, and evangelism.
• Speak highly of ministry. Preaching the gospel is honorable work (1 Tim. 3:1). Churches should treat it that way and talk about it that way.
• Encourage visits to Bible departments and schools of preaching. Let young men visit classes, sit in on lectures, and see what training for ministry looks like.
• Invite them to observe a class. Sometimes sitting in a class for a day is all it takes for a man to realize: “I could do this.”
The Work Matters
Every congregation searching for a preacher represents souls that need to be taught, encouraged, and led to Christ.
At the West Virginia School of Preaching, we are committed to helping train faithful men to preach the gospel, serve congregations, and strengthen the church.
If you know a man who loves the Lord and loves the Word…
Encourage him.
Pray for him.
Send him.
The church still needs preachers!
