Your Guide to Meeting the Qualifications of a Pastor in Missouri 

An MDiv isn’t your only option. A Master of Theology program would prepare you to become a member of the clergy. Such courses of study prepare students for specialized, high-ranking ministerial positions. Many emphasize researching Christianity and how Biblical interpretations have spawned movements across the globe.

Keep an eye out for MDiv concentrations that allow you to specialize in a field relevant to your church, or Missourians. You could study the Bible from a ministerial perspective, learn how to develop missions, or specialize in pastoral care.

Salary Expectations for Pastor Jobs in Missouri

On average, clergy members in Missouri make $52,880 per year. As their experience as church leaders expand, they earn more. The top 25 percent reported earning $61,690 or better, while the top 10 percent earn more than $74,820 annually.

The figures above may not necessarily reflect what pastors and ministers for larger churches make. Some pastors may classify themselves as directors. Directors of religious activities and education services in this state earn an average $70,260 per year. That’s a very generous living in a low-cost state like Missouri. What’s more, the top-paid directors report earning six figures – at least $120,340 annually. 

Step 4. Consider Forming a Christian Ministry of Your Own in Missouri

We’ve covered the crime, substance abuse, and mental health issues pervasive in Missouri. Now, you may find a job at a church that effectively reaches people who are struggling. You’ll teach yourself how to give the best help possible, while living the life a devout Christian.

Down the line, you may see communities devoid of faith and hope. It’s at that moment where the calling to build a ministry of your own may arise. “This community needs me. This community needs God.” It’s an admirable pursuit, but not one without its hurdles.

In addition to finding a house of worship, there are legal and financial considerations you need to take into consideration.

Acquire a 501(c)(3) Status from the Internal Revenue Service

Completing this step will exempt you from registering your church as a charitable organization with the state of Missouri. To get your 501(c)(3) status from the IRS, follow the steps below. It may be worth your time to hire a lawyer or tax advisor with this process:

1. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): This allows you to open a post office box and file tax forms. You can get one online, over the phone, by mail, or fax.
2. Apply for tax-exempt status: Fill out IRS Form 1023 within 27 months of forming your church.

Why You’re Exempt from Registering with Missouri

Right out of the gate, any organization that has a 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS is exempt from registering itself as a charitable organization with the state of Missouri. Even if you didn’t obtain this classification, you’d still be exempt from doing so. That’s because Missouri law would define your church as a “religious organization.”

The Revised Statutes of Missouri defines a religious organization as any church, society, sect, temple, etc. that exists for either of the following two reasons:

• “Meets at more or less regular intervals for worship of a supreme being or higher power, or for mutual support or edification in piety or with respect to the idea that a minimum standard of behavior from the standpoint of overall morality is to be observed.”
• “Is an entity that is owned, operated, controlled, supervised or principally supported by, or associated with through the sharing of common religious bonds and convictions, any organization that meets the requirements of this subdivision.”

After getting all the litigious steps finished, you can build your church however you see fit. Missourians need you, and your time on this earth is precious. Go forth, and do your good work.

2020 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job market trends for Religious Workers, Church Directors, and Clergy based on state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2022.