![]() ![]() They are struggling to live in communities and maintain often much less than the median income of their communities. Or their spouses are working one or two jobs, out of necessity, not necessarily out of choice. Many pastors I know not only work at the church, but also either work another job or find extra ways to earn money. ![]() Why are we not equally expecting that they, like most other jobs, get two days a week off? We want to hear about engaging culture and strengthening marriages and families, but we want them to cheat their own families out of their time and energy. We, as a church, are expecting our pastors, often young men or women who are married and have one or two small children, to spend, as you said, 50, 60 or 70 hours a week at work and then smugly justify it by saying it’s all “ministry”…for God. These are great ideas, but to me, they really point out a problem in our churches that we do not seem to address and maybe pastor appreciation month is the time to address it. Surprise them with gift cards to their favorite restaurants, coffee shops, or bookstores throughout the year. While Pastor Appreciation Month concludes at the end of October, your pastor continues to work hard every month of the year. And remember to keep appreciating them throughout the year. Dedicate time to pray for your pastor each week, but let them know what you are specifically praying. Anyone? Find out what they dream of-and make it reality.ĩ. Maybe it’s a camp or concert they’ve always wanted to attend. Do something over the top to spoil your pastor’s kids. Take your pastor’s car to be detailed and while you’re at it, top off the gas tank.Ĩ. The pastor (or spouse) may not be comfortable with having a church member fix items around the house but several hours of pre-paid service can be a huge blessing.ħ. In serving so many needs, a pastor’s home can soon become a collection of I’ll-get-to-it-later projects. A meaningful note of thanks accompanied by some cash can be such an encouragement and provided much needed groceries or fun family night. This can provide a much-needed respite and time to be together.ĥ. If you have a family cabin or cottage, consider giving your pastor’s family a week to use it each year. Make Your Family Cabin or Condo Available. If you’re a frequent flyer, consider giving the equivalent of a pair of tickets to your pastor and spouse for a getaway.Ĥ. Do you have season tickets to a sporting event, concert, or theater? If so, considering offering your tickets so your pastor and their family can enjoy the event.ģ. A gift card to a local restaurant or their favorite store can be a huge encouragement.Ģ. Most people who work for churches live on tight budgets. Here are 10 ideas for how to appreciate your pastor and church staff:ġ. This is the time of year to go beyond saying, “Nice sermon,” or “Thanks for being there.” This is the month when you can go out of your way to pour into them through thoughtful gifts and meaningful expressions. Some do this through being bi-vocational. It’s not uncommon for pastors to log 50, 60, or 70 hours more in a week. If you’re tempted to think that most of the hours they’re on the clock are Saturdays or Sundays, consider how many hours they spend organizing, counseling, leading, administrating, planning, and preparing. ![]()
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