What is the definition of clergy or pastor? It’s such a simple term; only two syllables, but often carrying a load of responsibility…to God and to His flock of believers.

Let’s take a look:
Clergy — Persons ordained for religious service; pastors, priests, rabbis, etc. collectively.
Pastor — A person, as a priest or minister, in spiritual and jurisdictional charge of a parish, church, congregation, or community.

Did anyone else but me notice some of the words in these definitions?

Take, for instance,“ordained for religious service” Your pastor has been called by God to serve. Let’s be honest. Most of us prefer to “be served” instead of serving others. This is the full-time job of our clergy. And whom do they serve? You and I, the members of their church.

Check out the pastor definition. “In…charge of…a church or community” This is the person who shoulders the spiritual, physical, financial and emotional burden for the individuals and families under their care. It is a responsibility that most of us would not want to take on…willingly!

Which brings me to my point? These “servants” work long hours, usually under less than perfect conditions, with a lower than average pay scale and considerable criticism, often causing disappointment, discouragement and defeat. For many of us, it sounds like the unconditional, selfless love required in parenting…and it is!

Their lives are played out with the entire congregation and community looking on. They are expected to have ideal families, be perfect people, always be available, never be down and have all the answers we need to keep our own lives stable and moving forward. Those are unrealistic expectations to place on anyone, yet most of us are disappointed when a pastor becomes overwhelmed, seems depressed, lets us down or completely burns out.

But, if we take action, we can change this paradigm and help show our pastor’s how much we really appreciate all they do on our behalf. This is the heart and soul of Pastor Appreciation Month. So, to help you out, we’ve compiled a “short list” of suggestions to express your gratitude for this dedicated service we are so fortunate to be the recipients of.

1)Pray regularly for your pastor —Privately, publicly and personally with your pastor
2)Attitude of gratitude — All behavior change begins with an attitude change
3)Express appreciation in writing — Send cards, letters & emails of encouragement
4)Use your skills to bless — Mow a lawn, fix a car, teach the computer, babysit, etc.
5)Offer to meet a need in the church — Volunteer to help where needed
6)Organize a special celebration service — Publicly honor your pastor’s faithfulness
7)Produce a video — Affirm the impact of this servant’s life on the parishioners
8)Give a special gift — Find something meaningful and enjoyable for your pastor
9)Sponsor ongoing education — Send your pastor to a requested conference
10)Give the gift of travel — Nothing quite enriches the soul and thanks the entire family like a wonderful trip to a desired destination

These are only the “Top 10”ideas on how to bless, thank and encourage your pastor and his family. With some creativity and a little imagination, the possibilities are endless.

If you’ll notice, the first 5 ideas can be done as an individual. You won’t need any help from others to accomplish any of these expressions of gratitude. So, don’t wait for others. Do your own thing. Lead the way. Who knows…it might be contagious!

The remaining 5 ideas can be done as an entire church body or in small groups i.e. certain ministries within the church can spearhead an event, a Bible study small group can choose a project or your family can sponsor something close to your heart. Have fun with this and you will be blessed in the process.
Remember, pastor appreciation is biblical. It is a concept that appears throughout the pages of scripture.

•Galatians 5:13 says … “Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love;”
•1 Timothy 5:17 says …“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching”
•Jeremiah 3:15 says…“And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”

It is also important to remember that appreciation, affirmation and prayer support of our spiritual leaders is appropriate throughout the entire year. Let this be the beginning of a year-long expression of thanks to God for the spiritual leaders He has given you.