Clergy Compensation Setting Practices: Review of Practices in the Great Plains Conference of the United Methodist Church

• Main Author: Hargrove, Andrew B. Y
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01-01-2021
• Subjects: Clergy; Divinity; Theology
• ISBN: 9798516930515

The process for setting clergy compensation is fraught with difficulties and confusion. This study sought to discover the current highlights of the discussions about compensation for full-time clergy in the Great Plains Conference of the United Methodist Church which covers the states of Kansas and Nebraska. This study also sought to help alleviate some of the difficulties and confusion within this conversation. The study includes a review of both religious and secular literature on the topic. Additionally, there are many who have well thought out opinions and have a personal track record of success in helping specific individuals manage the conversation but have not published in peer-reviewed academic journals. This study seeks to add to a healthy practical and theological grounding of salary setting practices for clergy. Conversations about money are not comfortable for many people. Compensation negotiation practices vary widely across industries and fields. Speaking openly about money in a church setting can seem terribly off-putting to many Christians for a whole host of reasons. In the midst of these and other factors, how do boards and clergy approach the process? Are they using best practices from the secular and/or religious worlds? The questionnaire used in this project was shared with full-time clergy and the chairs of the local church boards who have oversight in the salary setting process. An interview was conducted with District Superintendents who oversee both clergy and boards in setting compensation. This study can be used to help guide clergy, boards, and those who have over-sight responsibility to look for weaknesses and missing areas in their own practice.