Lived experiences of pastoral burnout among rural vs urban churches in Nigeria

Bibliographic Data

ID24216448
AuthorsChristopher Ikechukwu Asogwa (0000-0002-0040-0210, University of Nigeria), Stella Chinweudo Ekwueme (University of Nigeria), Toluwalashe Maiyekogbon (Livability), John Oluwaseyi Jemisenia (University of Nigeria), Sunday Adole Agada (Federal College of Forestry Jos)
Year2026
Pages1-21
Publication date2026-09-28
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueMental Health Religion & Culture (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1367-4676 • E-ISSN: 1469-9737
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/13674676.2026.2649802
OpenAlexW7214597836
LanguageEN
References cited29

This qualitative study explored pastoral burnout among 24 Nigerian pastors, aged 39–60, from diverse denominations across six geopolitical zones. Using purposive sampling and in-depth interviews analysed through Braun and Clarke’s thematic framework, the study identified emotional exhaustion and spiritual dryness as burnout manifestations emerging from stressors such as role overload. Urban pastors reported challenges such as overscheduling, technological demands, and administrative pressures, while rural pastors faced communal over-demand, financial strain, and relational obligations. Triggers included congregational expectations, financial pressures, administrative burdens, and political or religious violence. Coping strategies including prayer, fasting, family and peer support, collegial networking, and occasional avoidance varied in efficacy across contexts. Findings revealed that burnout is multidimensional, shaped by individual and systemic dynamics, with coping often insufficient to mitigate long-term strain. The study highlights the need for context-specific interventions: trauma-informed training, financial support, and peer networks, to strengthen pastoral sustainability, denominational policy, and clergy mental health.

clergy mental health · coping strategies · Emotional exhaustion · financial stress · pastoral burnout · pastors · Peer support · Religious violence · role overload · rural churches · spiritual dryness · urban churches · Contemporary Christian Leadership and Education · Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology · Stress and Burnout Research

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