Many Protestant ministers write articles for publication, give speeches, and engage in interfaith, community, civic, educational, and recreational activities sponsored by or related to the interests of the church. Some ministers teach in seminaries, colleges and universities, and church-affiliated preparatory or high schools. The services that ministers conduct differ among Protestant denominations and also among congregations within a denomination. Most services include Bible reading, hymn singing, prayers, and a sermon. In some denominations, Bible reading by a member of the congregation and individual testimonials may constitute a large part of the service.
Ministers serving small congregations generally work personally with parishioners.
Those serving large congregations have greater administrative responsibilities and spend considerable time working with committees, church officers, and staff, besides other duties. They may share specific aspects of the ministry with one or more associates or assistants, such as a minister of education who assists in educational programs for different age groups, or a minister of music. Many Protestant denominations now allow women to be ordained. Ministers are on call for any serious troubles or emergencies that affect members of their churches. They also may work long and irregular hours in administrative, educational, and community service activities.