2021 Missions Staffing Attrition
Data on long-term agency field staff attrition.
367 mission organizations took part in our study but only 137 provided both staff numbers and attrition numbers for long-term missionaries. Data from their organizations indicated an overall seven percent attrition rate when combined together.
Due the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic, many missionaries have returned home and some continue to wait to re-enter their ministry countries. 2021 numbers will reveal those that may decide not to return to their field of ministry.
In our 2019 attrition study the largest reason by percentage for attrition was retirement. According to the Pew Research Center, as average of 2 million baby boomers retired each year since 2011. In 2020, that number rose to 3.2 million people. Over the next few years, retirements of baby boomers who are full-time in their field of service will most likely remain a sizable and growing number.
This should provide opportunities for engagement with these seasoned missionaries in new and different roles, from coaching younger leaders and national leaders to helping churches engage with diaspora communities in their own neighborhoods.
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