A new instructional manual aims to equip both aspiring and current pastors with essential wisdom for navigating the challenges of pastoral ministry. Released on October 6, 2025, “What a Degree Didn’t Prepare You For, But You Need to Know” is authored by Pastor Lou Curcio, who draws on over 40 years of experience in diverse church roles.
Curcio’s guide addresses ten critical topics relevant to ministry, offering practical advice and encouragement for individuals entering or already engaged in pastoral work. Throughout the book, he emphasizes the importance of personal habits and family structures essential for thriving in a demanding environment.
The book also features insights from Patti Curcio, Pastor Lou’s wife, who shares her perspective on the unique challenges and rewards of being a pastor’s spouse and raising a family within the ministry context. This dual perspective serves to enrich the reading experience, providing a holistic view of life in pastoral service.
Reflecting on his journey, Curcio stated, “After going through some tough times in my ministry, I wanted to create a resource to share my experiences, both good and not so good, so that others might avoid the pitfalls I encountered.” He hopes that his shared knowledge will help protect others from similar hardships in their ministry careers.
Pastor Curcio’s extensive background includes roles such as Lead Pastor, Associate Pastor, and Youth Pastor, among others. He has experienced a challenging four-year period marked by clinical depression and burnout, lessons that have shaped his approach to pastoral care and ministry. “My prayer is that the knowledge and experiences with which God has blessed me might help save you and your family from some of the difficulties that ministry will inevitably bring,” he expressed.
The book, titled “What a Degree Didn’t Prepare You For But You Need to Know: A Ministry Application Handbook,” is available in both softcover (ISBN: 9798385051274) and electronic formats (ISBN: 9798385051267). Readers can purchase it through platforms such as WestBow Press, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.
Pastor Lou Curcio grew up in Wayne, New Jersey, in a Christian family and pursued his theological education at Northeastern Bible College. After several years in pastoral roles, he furthered his studies at Biblical Seminary in Hatfield, Pennsylvania, earning a Master of Arts in Theology. Currently, he serves a small non-denominational church in Northern New Jersey, where he lives with his wife, Patti. Together, they have four children and seven grandchildren. In his free time, Pastor Lou enjoys reading and fishing.
For more information about the book and the author, visit www.pastorloucurcio.com. General inquiries can be directed to LAVIDGE – Phoenix, with contact person Ziggy Goldfarb at [email protected].
