Apostle John Bunjo. Photo/Courtesy.
Founder of Christian Restoration Ministries International, Apostle John Bunjo believes independent pentecostal churches in Uganda need to have open and honest conversations about pastoral succession to enhance a smooth transition from a predecessor to a successor.
In an update on Thursday, he explained that leaders need to “start thinking of building systems” so that ministries don’t become a “one man’s show” where “everything relies on the founder.”
The Apostle quoted Mathew 28:18-20, saying that the spread of Christianity essentially hinges on discipleship.
“The greatest challenge facing the indigenous (independent) church foundation, is the one man’s show, everything relies on the founder. We need to start thinking of building systems to preserve the legacy of our ministries. Christianity started with Jesus then the 12 and it spread through discipleship,” he said.
A recent study by Barna Research, revealed that the average age of pastors has increased by 10 years over the last 25 years and is currently age 54. In 2017, only 1 of 7 pastors were under age 40. For many church leaders, the report urged that conversations on a succession plan need to happen sooner than later.
Also, a report published under theological studies in 2020 found that succession by death is most prominent in independent churches, especially in the case of founders. ” Most founders do not retire even if they fall sick or fall into moral sin; they remain at the helm of the church until their last breath.” the report said.
Responding to Apostle John Bunjo’s remarks, a cross section of online Christians agreed that an unprecedented number of pastors in the country are hitting retirement age.
“If only we can embrace this, the sky will be the limit to the body of Christ in this nation! The God we serve is a generational God! Thank you Apostle John Bunjo for discerning the times,” a one Stuart Davids wrote.
Another social media user, Isabirye Richard asserted that most of the leaders have never had training on delegation and “end up behaving like Moses.” He said: “They need a Jethro to tell them what to do! They think they are the ministry and the ministry is them. And most rebellious pastors who are splinter break away can’t trust anyone, and they can’t mentor anyone.”
Some expressed concern over preachers who see ministries they lead as “family property” and “strategically positioning their wives and sons to replace them.”
