As churches across Oklahoma seek to grow stronger and more vibrant, a powerful yet often overlooked force is emerging at the heart of that effort: multivocational pastors.

These pastors, who serve congregations while simultaneously working in education, public service, business or trades, are becoming the backbone of local church leadership. Far from merely balancing jobs to make ends meet, they are living out a unified calling—faithfully ministering both inside and outside the church walls.

Faith in the Workplace

Multivocational pastors are uniquely positioned to model what it means to live as everyday missionaries. Whether teaching in classrooms, driving trucks or managing businesses, they embody faith in the public square. Their daily example shows church members how to integrate their beliefs into real-world life.

More than preachers, they are community leaders whose impact extends far beyond the pulpit.

Financial Sustainability for Smaller Churches

For many congregations, especially in rural or revitalization settings, hiring a full-time pastor simply isn’t financially feasible. The multivocational model allows churches to stay afloat—often thrive—without overextending their budgets

This also opens the door for greater investment in missions, outreach and local ministry initiatives.

Rooted in the Community

Because multivocational pastors live and work in the communities they serve, they are often attuned to local needs. These men aren’t just pastoring on Sundays—they are neighbors, coworkers and friends, building meaningful relationships that lead to gospel conversations and community trust.

Empowering the Church Body

Due to time and capacity limitations, multivocational pastors rely heavily on lay leaders. This necessity becomes a strength, as deacons, Sunday School teachers, and volunteers are empowered to take ownership of ministry.

This shared leadership model deepens discipleship and builds long-term sustainability—avoiding the burnout that so often accompanies solo ministry.

Experience that Enriches Ministry

With backgrounds in education, healthcare, military service and business, these pastors bring a wealth of practical knowledge to the church. They solve problems, connect with people, and bring a down-to-earth relatability that enriches their pastoral leadership.

A Biblical Legacy

The multivocational approach is not a modern invention. The Apostle Paul, who made tents to support his ministry, serves as a biblical model for this kind of leadership (Acts 18). Today’s pastors are following in those same footsteps—laboring in both the workplace and the Kingdom.

Answering the Call Amid Leadership Shortage

With fewer young leaders pursuing full-time ministry and many veteran pastors nearing retirement, multivocational pastors are filling a crucial leadership gap. Particularly in rural and underserved areas, they are not just holding the line—they are advancing the gospel.

A Strategic Path Forward

If we are serious about revitalizing churches, embracing multivocational ministry is not optional—it’s essential.

Key Steps Forward Include:

– Equipping pastors with accessible, flexible training such as the Haskins School

– Encouraging churches to embrace this model as biblical and viable

– Celebrating pastors who live the Gospel daily

– Connecting them with coaching and support networks

A Movement Worth Celebrating

Multivocational pastors are not on the fringes of Oklahoma Baptists life—they are at the center. More than 1,100 churches are led by men who are preaching, ministering, working and serving with faith and resilience. They represent a vital part of the revitalization story God is writing in our state. As their influence continues to grow, the church must come alongside them—encouraging, resourcing and celebrating their calling.

For the future of the church in Oklahoma, multivocational ministry is not just a practical solution—it is a spiritual strategy.