The Pain of Forced Termination with Kevin Urichko

Forced termination is one of the most painful and disorienting experiences a pastor can face, often leaving behind confusion, grief, and a shattered sense of purpose. 

In this raw and deeply personal episode, Robby is joined by Kevin Urichko, former executive pastor of a megachurch, who shares the story of his own forced termination after 30 years of faithful service. Kevin opens up about the betrayal, burnout, and identity crisis that followed, and how God used that season to reshape his soul, pace of life, and ministry purpose.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that God does not waste our pain. Kevin’s journey through disillusionment, counseling, and ultimately healing with the help of Care for Pastors offers hope for any pastor who has walked through--or is currently walking through--a similar valley. Kevin's story helps us understand the gravity of forced termination and why a healthy path to recovery is essential for ministry leaders and their families.

This conversation explores themes of:

• The emotional and spiritual trauma of forced termination
• Identity loss and betrayal in ministry
• The importance of slowing down and seeking soul care
• Learning radical self-awareness through pain
• Rebuilding purpose outside traditional church roles
• How pastors can navigate grief and find safe community
• The sacred role of rest, counseling, and healing

Resources mentioned on the episode:

Care for Pastors

Pastors’ Hope Network

The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill Podcast

Necessary Endings by Dr. Henry Cloud

Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero 

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, we encourage you to share it and help us spread healing and hope for those who are hurting. Subscribe to the Care for Pastors Podcast and leave a review to help others discover this life-giving resource.

About our Guest:

Dr. Kevin Urichko was born in Illinois but raised in Central Florida. He holds degrees from Boston University (B.A.) and Reformed Theological Seminary (M.Div. & D.Min.). Kevin was a pastor with Northland Church in Longwood, Florida, for 30 years, and continues to serve through Shepherd Ministries today. He and his wife, Linda (married since 1991), enjoy ministry and teaching together. They are the grateful parents of two grown children, Kristen and Isaac. Kevin’s desire is to come alongside pastors and pastoral family members with an understanding heart, sharing the compassion and hope he has received from Jesus in his own needs and challenges. He joined the Care for Pastors team in February 2023.