From October 10 to 12, 2025, a delegation led by Rev. Zhang Yaofa, president of Zhejiang Christian Council, and Rev. Jiang Chong'en, deputy director of the provincial CC&TSPM office, visited churches in Taizhou City to conduct a research tour.
The visit focused on the pressing issue of pastoral shortages—described by local co-workers as "many sheep but few shepherds"—as well as strict church governance and the standardized process of clergy ordination, according to Jiaojiang Church in Taizhou.
The delegation's first stop was Xianju County Church on October 10. During the meeting, representatives of the Xianju County CC&TSPM reported that while congregations continue to grow, the number of ordained pastors and full-time ministers remains limited. The heavy reliance on volunteer preachers, whose theological foundation and ministry skills vary widely, has created a serious imbalance between the needs of believers and available pastoral care.
Rev. Zhang responded that the vitality and future of the church depend on capable personnel. He stressed that those entering holy orders must be grounded in biblical truth, demonstrate moral integrity, and serve as examples in faith and life. He called for the establishment of structured training pathways to cultivate and ordain qualified workers who can pastor the growing flock responsibly.
During the discussion, Pan Shungao, chairman of the Xianju County TSPM Committee, appealed for the provincial CC&TSPM to design targeted training courses that address the specific needs of grassroots ministers. He noted that improving the comprehensive quality of clergy and volunteer preachers is essential to addressing the pastoral gap. Rev. Zhang also emphasized the need for churches to strengthen their understanding of religious regulations and uphold governance according to law, advancing the principle of strict governance of the church at all levels.
On the morning of October 11, the delegation continued its research at Luqiao District Church. Rev. Zhang reiterated that ordination must follow strict standards set by the provincial CC&TSPM. He underscored the principle of "ordaining only when mature," urging that cases with disputed qualifications be handled with caution. He instructed ordination review panels to go deep into local congregations, listen to feedback, verify situations carefully, and ensure the fairness, credibility, and quality of the ordination process.
In addition to addressing clergy shortages, Rev. Zhang reminded churches to remain vigilant against extreme charismatic tendencies, prevent internal division, and safeguard unity. "The purpose of this research tour," he stated, "is not merely to inspect but to identify real needs, raise standards, and build a healthy pastoral structure that can truly serve believers and benefit society."
