Pastor Appreciation Toolkit (pt.1)
Pastor, we are keenly aware that it’s terribly awkward (and even potentially self-serving) to coordinate your own appreciation celebration. However, think of it this way, it is part of your responsibility to create a culture that is healthy and wholesome while you serve, and to help ensure that it will remain long after you’re gone. Here’s what we recommend: The following letter (and attached files) will help usher your church toward a meaningful celebratory practice. Find the person who is most supportive of your ministry, and gently share this with them, encouraging them that this is a healthy activity that the church should provide for every pastoral family that serves. It’s not about you. It’s about creating meaningful practices that will prove to enhance the culture and overall health of the faith community. Thank you for all you do. We pray they will take this opportunity to acknowledge the important work that you do, and the ways that your family supports you.
To Whom It May Concern:
Thank you for your interest in caring for your pastoral family.
The Bible says, “And he himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers” (Ephesians 4:11 CSB). It is a Biblical principle, that God gave pastors to our churches and congregations to lead His people into all truth. In other words, pastors are a gift from God. Paul continues to say that pastors are, “To equip the saints for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness” (Ephesians 4:12–13 CSB).
The Ministerial Association of the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church acknowledges the significant role that pastors, and their families play in the church and wider community, therefore, we gladly promote and celebrate October as Pastor’s Family Appreciation Month. This is a special time set aside to honor pastors and their families; however, we encourage congregations to affirm and celebrate throughout the entire year, making it a yearlong love affair with your pastoral family.
Many men and women who have been called by God, serve tirelessly, without reservation, and regardless of the sacrifices to themselves or their family. The work they do can be emotionally and spiritually taxing. Sometimes the stress and long hours affects the time they have available to spend with their families and even to study the Word of God. There may be times that pastors, and their families feel isolated and burnt out, wondering if what they do makes a difference. When members demonstrate their appreciation, it boosts their morale and motivation to continue their work with enthusiasm. Knowing that their efforts are recognized and valued can help pastors persevere through challenging times. Appreciation fosters a sense of connection between the pastor and the congregation. It strengthens relational bonds and creates a positive, supportive environment where there are mutual feelings of value.
In summary, caring for and appreciating pastors is not only a matter of gratitude, but also aligns with Biblical teachings and helps maintain the spiritual health and vitality of the congregation. Recognizing the sacrifices and dedication of pastors and their families can strengthen the bond within the church and inspire them to continue their vital work with renewed enthusiasm. The entire family will then recognize that the work and sacrifices made by their loved one is appreciated by those being served. Ministering to pastoral families as they minister to the church is a way of supporting and encouraging them to continue their God-ordained work.
This toolkit is being provided as a starting point, with ideas and tips that can be used, as you demonstrate your care for the one God has chosen to lead your community of faith. Here you will find suggestions that can spark your creativity to individualize your approach to the ways you can nurture your relationship, bless, and appreciate your pastor and family.
We, at the North American Division, thank you for your commitment to affirm, bless, and nurture your pastoral family. It is a wonderful opportunity to say, “thank you,” and we know they will be grateful.
Four Steps to Get Started:
STEP 1
Appoint a designated person and/or a “pastor appreciation committee” to obtain the information, and also to share it with others who will also need access to it. The person/committee can then decide the frequency and the specific ways you will care for your pastor and family during October and throughout the year.
STEP 2
As you begin your planning, the goal is to give positive affirmation to your entire pastoral staff and their families. Utilize the Pastor, Spouse and Child profiles (below) to ascertain the likes and dislikes of the ministerial family, realizing that when you bless those that the pastor loves (spouse and children), it is another way of letting the pastor know that he/she is loved, valued, and appreciated. The profiles provided can assist you as you decide how to tangibly gift your pastoral family or families.
STEP 3
Meet with your church treasurer or finance committee to create a budget and spending plan.
STEP 4
Outline the frequency that you will bless your pastor and family. This plan would most certainly include birthdays, anniversaries, holidays (i.e., Thanksgiving), Pastor Appreciation Month (October), and Christmas. Then you will be able to begin planning the specific details for each event. You are encouraged to keep a record of gifts given so that duplication can be prevented.
While you can begin this ‘ministry’ at any time, one idea, is to launch your appreciation for your pastor during pastor appreciation month, and then continue the frequency that you previously decided upon throughout the year.
As appreciation occasions develop, communicate your plans to those in your congregation and community. Promote your activities and encourage participation by all.
Thank you for utilizing this Toolkit to nurture and bless your pastoral family. We pray God’s success in all your endeavors.
Thank you again, for taking part in the ministry of blessing and nurturing your pastoral family. Please take advantage of the companion to this toolkit for additional tools and tips to honor your pastoral family.
The time that is dedicated to investing in your pastoral family will create an atmosphere that promotes a warm and caring environment and at the same time minimize ministry stress and unrealistic expectations. Cherish your pastor’s Christ-like characteristics, their strengths , talents, and special God given gifts as a priceless asset for your congregation. Do all you can to discourage grumbling, poisonous humor or a negative spirit. Your pastor(s) and family(ies) is/are human, just like we are and we want to encourage compassion, empathy, loyalty and foster personal renewal and restoration for a continued long-standing positive relationship as we all work together and strive to make Heaven our home.
Sincerely,
NAD Ministerial Association
