Written by For those of you who are not aware, October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Don’t know what to do for your Pastor or Minister? Here are some suggestions from the Pastors Retreat Network:
12 Ways to Appreciate Your Minister
When we look at our minister what do we see? A spiritual giant? Someone who can go it alone? Someone who works a day and a half a week? A servant of the congregation? Someone who does it all?
The truth is that ministers are real people with real families, dreams, needs, desires and gifts. And like all of us, they shine best in situations where they are appreciated and supported. Here are a dozen ways you can bring out the best in your minister:
- Write a note of appreciation.
- Pray for your minister regularly.
- Stop the rumor mill.
- Invite him out to lunch, golfing, or some other shared interest, without an agenda.
- Offer to babysit the kids so your minister and his spouse can have an evening together, even better, offer them a gift certificate to a restaurant they enjoy.
- Honor his day off – allow time for rest, personal renewal and family time.
- In times of loss, offer sympathy, care and practical help.
- Consider holidays and other family days – if the minister is far from their family of origin, invite them to your celebration – no strings attached.
- Ask him how you can help and then follow through.
- Tell him what you’ve learned from their sermon.
- Go to http://parsonage.org/cam/index.cfm for ideas on how to celebrate your minister during Pastor Appreciation Month.
- Consider a sabbatical time for your minister and find a way to provide one as needed.
Oh! I thought #12 was telling me to take a sabbatical from my pastor….
Actually these are very good suggestions. I know your job is often frustrating and demanding…and even though you are not my personal pastor, you do bless me and I do appreciate you!
October may be Pastor Appreciation Monthm, but when is it Most High and Holy Reverand Appreciation Month?
BTW, while I TOTALLY support this Hallmark Holiday, I saw online that yesterday was National Coming Out Day. What have we come to?
Jeff we do apprieciate you more then you will ever know. Bweing the son of a preacher I have seen the toll it can take on your time, family and friends. We do love you for who you are and the safrafices that you make. I will honor you with a prayer a hearty handshake and pat on the back. Oh yeah I also will honor you with being a better member and being more of a servant.