Circuit/Itinerant Pastoral Model Case Studies

Executive summary

The circuit or itinerant pastoral model—where one pastor serves multiple congregations on rotation—has deep roots in both Methodist and early Adventist history. Today, it is the de facto reality for most Adventist pastors globally: 66% manage five or more churches, and 23% handle ten or more. Despite this prevalence, surprisingly little formal research documents the intentional transition from settled to circuit models or measures comparative outcomes. The Oregon Conference has piloted a deliber...