Your Guide to Meeting the Qualifications of a Pastor in Ohio

Salary Expectations for Church Ministry Jobs in Ohio

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), religious workers in Ohio earned an average salary of $36,310 as of May 2020, while those with extensive experience and those working in large outreach and ministry programs earned salaries that were closer to the top 10% during this time, which was $52,740.

Step 3. Earn a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or Similar Graduate Degree in Ohio and Establish Your Role in Christian Leadership

If you aspire to learn how to become a pastor or other church leader, you've probably considered pursuing the Master of Divinity (MDiv) or other graduate ministry degree. The MDiv and other graduate ministry degrees have become the gold standard for upper echelon positions in churches and ministries and is now largely required to become ordained.

These degree programs include in-depth study and interpretation of Scripture, church history, theology, and the Christian faith, along with an investigation into the skills and competencies necessary to effectively and successfully minister.

Many of these programs offer students the opportunity to specialize their ministry degree in an area like church planting, urban ministry, church history, or biblical languages. Many are also offered in a partially or fully online format. Distance-based coursework ensures a convenient course of study. Online ministry degrees like the Master of Divinity online, which have become increasingly popular programs for busy, working professionals, feature the same rigorous and dynamic curriculum as on-campus programs yet offer the flexibility of online study.

Salary Expectations for Pastor Jobs in Ohio

According to the BLS, directors of religious activities and education in Ohio earned an average salary of $44,440 as of May 2020, while those at the top of the pay scale – likely those who lead large congregations and those with considerable experience – earned about $65,610 during this time.

Members of clergy in Ohio earned an average salary of $48,810, while the top 10% in this profession in the Buckeye State earned about $71,590.

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

Your personal calling to serve the Lord through ministry may ultimately include establishing your own church. Church planting is no small task – yet for those with equal parts passion, leadership skills, and preparation, it can be a life-changing endeavor.

If your career plans in the church include planting a church of your own, you'll want to make sure you meet all state and federal requirements. In Ohio, this includes establishing a nonprofit organization with the Ohio Secretary of State.

You'll register your church's name and your church as a nonprofit corporation with the Secretary of State, which includes:

• Reserving a name for your church (requires the completion of Form 534B)
• Filing Articles of Incorporation (Form 532B), which must include:
  • The name of your church
  • The location of the church's principal office
  • The purpose(s) of the church
• Appointing a Statutory Agent (the person who will accept service of process on behalf of the corporation).

You'll also need to obtain a Federal Identification Number (FEIN) from the IRS, which you'll then use to register your church as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

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.