8 | February 2026
Working to Close the Friendship Gap for Pastors By Stephen Owens, Northeast Region catalyst
Many of us are planning sermon series, worship services, and small groups now, and we are thinking about how they will affect our congregations and visitors. We hope they will benefit them spiritually, emotionally, and rela - tionally, for we know those three things are connected. As we grow spiritually, it should affect us emotionally and help us cultivate better relationships. We see this connection in the Great Commandment: “Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’” (Matthew 22:36-39, NKJV). In a recent article by the Barna Group, “Inside the Friend- ship Gap for Pastors,” we see this connection flourishing among churchgoers, as 85% of churchgoers surveyed said they have flourishing relationships. But we don’t see that correlation among the vast majority of pastors. https://www.barna.com/trends/pastors-friendship-gap/ The same study indicated that 67% of pastors feel they have flourishing relationships, but two out of five pastors feel isolated and lonely. The article indicates, “When the sermon ends and the sanctuary empties, many pastors face a different reality: deep, persistent loneliness.” The survey goes on to say, “Loneliness isn’t always about being alone. For many pastors, it’s a deeper disconnect
– feeling unseen or unsupported amid constant commu- nity.” This article resonated with me because my desire for 2026 is that Northeast Region pastors have opportuni- ties to fellowship and develop organic friendships. Some pastors feel isolated and disconnected, as the Barna re- port indicates, and it is my hope we can bridge the gap by having events where pastors can connect, learn, grow, fellowship, and have fun. This year, we will have multiple fun-oriented outings for pastors and their families. In addition, we will offer pas - tor-only events where pastors can share ministry chal- lenges and glean wisdom from each other. I believe the words of scripture should ring true among pastors – love one another, John 15:12; encourage one another, 1 Thessalonians 5:11; pray for one another, James 5:16; and carry each other’s burdens, Galatians 6:2.
Pastor, please know I am praying for you, and plan- ning events that I hope will encourage you and spark more fellowship across our region. In the meantime, if I can be of assistance, please reach out. My email address is sowens@scbo. org. God Bless.
Northeast Region Catalyst Stephen Owens
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