By Gilbert Joseph

The National Vice-President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) for the North Central Zone, Prophet Isa El-Buba, has urged pastors to pay greater attention to their personal wellbeing, family life and self-development while carrying out their ministerial responsibilities.

El-Buba gave the advice in Jos during a combined fellowship of PFN Ministers organised by the Plateau State chapter of the PFN.

Speaking to the congregation drawn from different parts of Plateau State, the cleric emphasised that while ministry demands dedication and sacrifice, ministers must also ensure that their families and personal lives are not neglected.

He encouraged pastors to pursue continuous personal development and cultivate legitimate sources of livelihood rather than depending entirely on tithes and offerings.

According to him, developing additional skills and income streams can help ministers support their families and carry out their calling more effectively without unnecessary financial pressure.

El-Buba noted that a balanced approach to ministry and personal life would enable pastors to remain focused and resilient in the face of challenges often associated with pastoral work.

The fellowship, themed “Iron Sharpens Iron,” brought together ministers from across the State for a time of spiritual encouragement, reflection and interaction.

Also speaking at the gathering, the Plateau State Chairman of the PFN, Apostle Joseph Rims, said the event was organised to strengthen ministers who often devote much of their time to serving others through preaching, counselling and pastoral care.

He explained that the platform was designed to allow pastors connect with one another, share experiences and draw inspiration that would help them continue their work with renewed strength.

Rims said the theme of the meeting was inspired by Proverbs 27:17, which highlights the importance of mutual support and encouragement among believers.

He added that the fellowship also aimed to promote unity within the PFN and strengthen relationships among ministers serving in different parts of Plateau State.

The PFN chairman particularly acknowledged the difficulties faced by pastors and church members in rural communities across the State.

He assured them that the PFN leadership and other ministers remained committed to supporting them through prayers and solidarity.

“We want our brethren serving in the hinterlands to know they are not alone. Our prayers and support remain with them, and we believe God will continue to sustain their ministries, churches and families,” he said.

Rims further explained that beyond preaching, the fellowship created a forum where ministers could raise questions and discuss issues affecting their work.

As part of the programme, a question-and-answer session allowed pastors to interact with senior ministers and benefit from their guidance and experience.

Earlier, Rev. Maiwa’azi Dandaura, who spoke on the theme of the fellowship, stressed the need for ministers to build strategic partnerships in order to strengthen the impact of their ministry.

Prayer sessions during the gathering were led by Pastor Dele Olukotun and Pastor David Ndubueze, who encouraged participants to remain hopeful and committed to their calling despite prevailing challenges.

The fellowship concluded with an interactive session aimed at strengthening collaboration and support among ministers within the PFN community in Plateau State.