Religious Leader

Religious leaders offer people spiritual and moral guidance, help and support. Duties vary from faith to faith, but may include:

• encouraging people to commit to their faith and live according to its teachings
• praying and helping others to pray
• explaining the meaning of scripture and other religious writings
• conducting religious services or ceremonies
• helping people who are having difficulties with their faith
• working in the community.

Some religious leaders are involved in outreach work with groups such as young people, homeless people or the elderly.

Hours vary, but the work of a religious leader usually involves a significant time commitment. Some religious ceremonies must be performed at a particular time of the day or week. Evening work may be necessary to visit people at home or attend meetings. As well as spending time in their place of worship, religious leaders usually have an office, which may be based in their own home. They may visit people in a range of environments, including private homes, hospitals, schools and prisons.

Some religious leaders are paid a salary, while others work on a voluntary basis. There may be benefits such as accommodation, living expenses or the use of a car.

Religious leaders should:

• have deep and sincere commitment to their faith
• be excellent communicators
• have leadership skills
• have a genuine desire to help others
• want to gain a deeper understanding of their faith and share this with others.

Becoming a religious leader is not a decision to be taken lightly. It demands deep-rooted faith and the ability to make a lifelong commitment. Anyone who is considering becoming a religious leader should first ask his or her own religious leader for advice. Different faiths may have specific rules about who can train as a religious leader.

Entry requirements vary. It may be possible to start training as a religious leader without formal academic qualifications. Life experiences are valued.

There is no standard training for religious leaders. Training and the length of time it takes vary between different faiths. Elements that may be involved include study at a college or a religious training centre, private meditation and reflection, and intensive study of the faith's scriptures and other religious texts.

There may be a promotion structure, but this varies from faith to faith. Some religious leaders become involved in broadcasting or writing books and articles for newspapers and magazines. Work overseas is possible.

Further details