Includes bibliographical references (p. 244-249) and index.

The setting -- Pastors who left local church ministry -- Pastors who preferred another kind of ministry -- Pastors who needed to care for children or family -- Pastors who had conflict in the congregation -- Pastors who had conflict with denominational leaders -- Pastors who were burned out or discouraged -- Pastors who left due to sexual misconduct -- Pastors who left due to divorce or marital problems -- Perspectives from judicatory leaders -- The impact of gender and sexuality -- Thinking about returning to the pastorate -- Summary and recommendations from pastors -- Appendix A. Past research on pastors who left local church ministry -- Appendix B. Research method -- Appendix C. Additional data tables -- Appendix D. Helpful books on problems facing pastors.