Fearlessly Courageous
Desk of Dennis Piller
9 4 2024
When was the last time you showed appreciation to your Pastor?
I saw that October is Pastor Appreciation Month. I thought of our Pastor Mike Moore and the other Pastors on staff who work so hard to support our growth in Christ and his church. I couldn’t remember that last time I did something special to tell them how much I appreciate them. Aren’t we often neglectful to show praise to the ones we care for the most? Pastor Appreciation Month is a wonderful opportunity for a congregation and friends to show gratitude for their pastor’s dedication and hard work. Here are some thoughtful ways to serve and appreciate your pastor both at home and at church:
“Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight…” – 1 Peter 5:2
The majority of Pastors throughout the year are often forced to neglect their own families to love and support their church families. It’s very hard to strike that healthy balance between both serving their family at home and their family at church as well. More than likely your Pastor(s) feel that tension so one of the best ways you can show appreciation is by loving your Pastor(s) family. I have put together some ideas to make it easy for your Pastor(s) to enjoy their families.
- Home or Personal Gifts: Consider giving a meaningful gift that reflects their personal interests or needs. This could be a hobby-related item, a gift card to a favorite restaurant, or a subscription to a service they enjoy. Meals and Treats: Organize a meal delivery or prepare homemade treats. This can help lighten their load and show your appreciation.
- Cards and Notes: Encourage your circle or group of friends to write personal notes of thanks, appreciation and encouragement. (Who does that anymore?) These can be collected and presented in a special way, such as a scrapbook or a decorative box or send them directly to them at the church.
- Home Projects: If appropriate and desired, offer to help with small home projects or chores. Sometimes practical help can be as appreciated as more traditional gestures. Perhaps an oil change or car or home repair or having a group do a special yard project.
- Gifts from the Congregation or Group: Organize a collective gift, such as a donation for a special weekend away or a gift to a charity of the pastor’s choice or a significant contribution to a fund or project that is important to them. Some might have a timeshare somewhere that would allow a short vacation. Perhaps babysitting to allow a night out or tickets to a show or a movie or an amusement park.
- Being more faithful at Church: A. Ask your Pastor what you could do to help during Sunday service once a month. B. Share a list of your gifts/talents/skills and ask which ministry you could get in to help. C. Pray about increasing your tithes and/or offerings.
- Pray for Your Pastor(s) and Ask Others to Pray Too – The best thing we can do for our Pastors to encourage and love them is to pray for them.
These are just ideas. This is not about money but a simple note to say you are praying for him and how much his leadership and dedication mean to you. You might share an example of how the church under his leadership has impacted you and your family. Or a sermon that really impacted you or some example of Godly living you saw that encouraged you. By combining one or more of these, you can create a meaningful and memorable Pastor Appreciation Month that honors and celebrates the vital role Pastor Mike and his staff plays in your church community.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus lauren daigle
