Many church leaders say denominational support is lacking

Lydia Houghton  |  UK & Ireland
Date posted:  24 Sep 2026
Share Add       
Many church leaders say denominational support is lacking

Church leaders say denominational support is lacking (iStock)

Church workers and spouses of Christian leaders say they have been negatively impacted by their denomination.

When asked to rate the benefit of denominational support in sustaining them, 13% of those surveyed spoke of a negative impact and 36% said it was of no benefit at all.

The data comes from pastoral refreshment organisation Living Leadership’s 2026 Spiritual Health Survey. “Whilst 34% of respondents find some benefit in denominational support, this is still the least helpful source of support with 49% reporting it has no or negative impact,” the charity says. Only 3% found this factor vitally important whereas 70% spoke of the vital importance of personal devotional time, and 65% found their spouse’s support key in their sustenance.

Share
< Previous article| UK & Ireland| Next article >
Read more articles on:   leadership  /  ministry  /  pastoral care
Read more articles by Lydia Houghton >>
World
Europe: Anglican network plants over one church a month

Europe: Anglican network plants over one church a month

A Biblically orthodox Anglican movement has continued to grow since its launch, planting, on average, more than one church every …

Features
Should AI be used in sermons? Bible college leaders weigh in

Should AI be used in sermons? Bible college leaders weigh in

How do we define a sermon?“Calvin says a sermon only becomes the Word of God if the Holy Spirit …

Subscribe

Enjoy our monthly paper and full online access for just £40/year

Find out more

New here?

Register and get three free articles each month!

Register