HAVE YOU HUGGED YOUR PASTOR LATELY?
Okay, you will first need to seek permission before extending a hug to your pastor. She or he may feel more comfortable with a handshake. Don’t assume, ask first!
October is Pastor Appreciation Month. This is a time to intentionally thank your pastor and leaders. Pastor appreciation should happen every day but because we tend to forget to express gratitude on a regular basis a month has been set aside to make up for our negligence.
During the month of October please encourage church members and constituents to offer acts of affirmation and appreciation to your pastor. The work of a pastor can be emotionally, spiritually and even physically stressful. Signs of encouragement and support will lift your pastor and help lighten the burden of ministry.
Acts of appreciation do not need to necessarily be elaborate. Doing something as simple a writing a personal note of thanks, sending a card, taking them out for coffee, or expressing kindness towards their spouse or children (if applicable) goes a long way in letting them know that they are cared for.
“The elders [pastors]who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.” I Timothy 5:17. Paul writes to Timothy that appreciation and honor should be given to those laboring to preach and teach the Gospel.
Take time during this next month to let your pastor know that they are loved and appreciated.
God Bless
Bishop Frank J. Beard