Over commitment in two directions at once leads to poor ministry and minimal work performance. Part time pastors are disadvantaged when it comes to professional enrichment . They are often prevented from undertaking ongoing study, in-service training, conferences and denominational activities such as retreats and schools of ministry. It is not only the lack of time but tight finances as well. A part timer in the country has geography against them too.
Finance is a thorny issue.
Part timers are in an awkward position with difficulties arising where church leaders and members do not see why their pastor should be receiving part allowances in addition to a proportion of the stipend. Add to this a blissful lack of awareness of the best way to package the arrangement for tax purposes and it is no wonder that pastors get close to pulling their hair out. Too many churches have not made the effort to do their home work and have been known to vary their financial agreements without reference to the pastor. The absence of a clear letter of understanding at the commencement of a pastorate is a one way ticket to chaos if the giving in the church declines for whatever reason. Trying to sort that one out is a nightmare, usually for the Union's accountant.