We Help the Helpers, and Those They Help
The vast ecclesiastical social safety net for the poor and the marginalized -- which has existed for hundreds of years -- is crumbling, and THE PARSONAGE PROJECT’s mission is to rescue it. We provide relief to clergy who maintain this safety net, as well as the people they help, through sabbatical opportunities, direct assistance, workshops, research, and a multi-faceted use of the faith-based and secular media to draw attention to the crisis and compel donors, government and other stakeholders to action.
Why We Do What We Do
In 2022 the media began reporting on “The Great Resignation,” the massive clergy resignation that took place post-pandemic. Studies emerged citing a variety of causes, the most significant being “immense stress,” “lonely and isolated,” “current political divisions,” and the effect ministry service has on family.
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Stories were heard of clergy resigning "in the pulpit," in congregation meetings, being guilty of job abandonment, taking early retirement, having mental health breakdowns, and even committing suicide.
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We acknowledge these challenges and make a continued commitment to prevent clergy from reaching such a severe state. Modeling after The Rt. Rev. Chilton R. Knudsen, Assisting Bishop to the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago’s model of mini-sabbatical, THE PARSONAGE PROJECT commits to providing a safe space for clergy to rest, recuperate, and build resiliency as they consider their next steps in ministry.
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THE PARSONAGE PROJECT is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization serving clergy and those they help. Won't you be a part of our work and contribute today?
Who We Are
We founded the PARSONAGE PROJECT to help clergy. With the shifts in public funding, the increase in suffering due to a variety of circumstances from the pandemic and political vitriol to climate change and community violence, our clergy are burning out.
We created PARSONAGE PRODUCTIONS to use media and film to spotlight the problems our religious leaders face throughout their careers, often dedicating their entire life work to the marginalized in pursuit of justice and relief of suffering.
So, Are You In?
Our mission is not one of politics nor of dogma. It is based on basic human values.
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Feed the hungry.
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House the homeless.
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Help the poor.
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Save our safety net.