Your pastors work so hard.
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.
It’s not uncommon for pastors to log 50, 60, or 70 hours more in a week. Some do this through being bi-vocational.
October is Pastor’s Appreciation Month. 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.
Here are 10 ideas for how to appreciate your pastor and church staff:
1. A Gift Card Goes A Long Way. Most people who work for churches live on tight budgets. A gift card to a local restaurant or their favorite store can be a huge encouragement.
2. Those Extra Tickets Do A Lot. 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.
3. Pass Along Your Airline Miles. If you’re a frequent flyer, consider giving the equivalent of a pair of tickets to your pastor and spouse for a getaway.
4. Make Your Family Cabin or Condo Available. If you have a family cabin or cottage, consider giving your pastor’s family a week to use it each year. This can provide a much-needed respite and time to be together.
5. Don’t Shy From Giving Cash. A meaningful note of thanks accompanied by some cash can be such an encouragement and provided much needed groceries or fun family night.
6. Pre-Pay for a Handy Man Service.
In serving so many needs, a pastor’s home can soon become a collection of I’ll-get-to-it-later projects. 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.
7. Pimp Your Pastor’s Ride. Take your pastor’s car to be detailed and while you’re at it, top off the gas tank.
8. Make a Pastor’s Kids Dreams Come True. Do something over the top to spoil your pastor’s kids. Maybe it’s a camp or concert they’ve always wanted to attend. T.S. Anyone? Find out what they dream of—and make it reality.
9. Give the Pastor a Date Night. Cover the cost of an upscale dinner. Provide childcare. Make it a getaway.
10. Dedicate time to pray for your pastor each week, but let them know what you are specifically praying.
And remember to keep appreciating them throughout the year. While Pastor Appreciation Month concludes at the end of October, your pastor continues to work hard every month of the year. Surprise them with gift cards to their favorite restaurants, coffee shops, or bookstores throughout the year.
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