Nov. 2, 2005

Abilene Christian University released the results of the 2005 Minister Salary Survey, conducted by Dr. Charles Siburt, vice president for church relations and associate dean for ministry programs and services.

Among other findings, the survey, which included about 600 ministers in Churches of Christ nationwide, demonstrated that minister salaries are directly related to their level of education and that churches have an especially high demand for youth and children's ministers.

The survey compares minister compensation packages, including allowances and benefits, as well as comparing number of years in ministry and educational background and experience.

"It shows them how other churches are compensating of their ministers and provides a comparison among churches of various sizes and geographical regions," Siburt said. "It also allows churches who are searching for new ministers to negotiate in keeping with current salary ranges."

Key results of the 2005 survey include:

• Some larger churches are now hiring younger ministers and paying them more, as competition has increased with a lower supply of quality candidates.
• Because of a high youth minister turnover rate, youth and children's ministers are in very high demand, as seen by their salaries.
• Education is directly related to salary.
• Larger churches generally pay their ministers more.

For the full results of the survey, visit www.acu.edu/ministry/salarysurvey.html.

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If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact Wendy Kilmer, director of public relations.

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