The list includes some practical ones to get you thinking about it and then a link to a list for further ideas on the Focus On The Family Pastoral Ministry web site.
Don't forget to encourage your pastor's this month!
12 Ways to Appreciate Your Pastor
When we look at our pastor or 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 clergy 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 pastor:
- Write a note of appreciation
- Pray for your pastor regularly
- Stop the rumor mill
- Invite him or her out to lunch, golfing, or some other shared interest, without an agenda
- Offer to babysit the kids so pastor and spouse can have an evening together, even better, offer them a gift certificate to a restaurant they enjoy
- Honor his or her day off – allow time for rest, personal renewal and family time
- In times of loss, offer sympathy, care, practical help
- Consider holidays and other family days – if the pastor is far from their family of origin, invite them to your celebration – no strings attached
- Ask him or her how you can help and then follow through
- Tell him or her what you’ve learned from their sermon
- Go to http://parsonage.org/cam/index.cfm for ideas on how to celebrate your minister during Clergy Appreciation Month
- Consider a sabbatical time for your pastor and find a way to provide one as needed
Why not post this list somewhere and practice one a month? And pass it along to a friend.
As you get to know your clergy family, you’ll be able to add to this list.
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