Every day provides opportunity to express appreciation to the Pastor and Staff of our church.

Included in those appreciated certainly should be the spouses of those who serve our church as Pastor and Staff members. These people make possible ministries that benefit many of us as they provide encouragement and support to our Pastor and Staff. They also often minister directly.

Few of us are aware of the heavy responsibilities and multiple ministries carried by our Pastor and Staff members of our church. Most Pastors are "on duty" seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Calls in the middle of the night related to emergencies are not uncommon. Weekends given to weddings and funerals or to church social activities or special events are frequent. Concern for people in difficulty or suffering illness or grief also takes a toll.

Those who serve the Lord as Pastors and church Staff members do not do so for the money, because in most cases salaries are not excessive. Often a minister's spouse must work in order for that person to serve in ministry "full time." A multitude of Pastors and church Staff members work in another job to make enough money to support their family and thus are bivocational. Such above-and-beyond service certainly must be taken into consideration.

There are many ways to express appreciation, as each of us determines what is appropriate. Some may use letters and cards to shower our pastor and staff members with personal comments of appreciation. Others may give gifts or provide for some time away from the heavy responsibilities they carry. Still others may offer to "take-over" the responsibility of a Staff member on a given Sunday, allowing them to enjoy participating without the duties that go with serving.

Whatever way you feel is most appropriate, take the time to thank our Pastor and Staff members. Please make it a point to do something special to encourage them. You'd be surprised how much just a little note of encouragement can do. Send flowers, send candy, or just send a note—the gift isn't the important point. Let them know that you're on their side, that you're supporting them with prayer on a regular basis, and that you love them. They need to hear it.

A husband and his wife arose one Sunday morning and the wife dressed for church. It was just about time for the service when she noticed her husband hadn't moved a finger toward getting dressed. Perplexed, she asked, "Why aren't you getting dressed for church?" He said, "Cause I don't want to go." She asked, "Do you have any reason?" He said, "Yes, I have three good reasons. First, the congregation is cold. Second, no one likes me. And third, I just don't want to go." The wife replied, wisely, "Well, honey, I have three reasons why you should go. First, the congregation is warm. Second, there are a few people there who like you. And third, you're the pastor! Get dressed!"

Thank God, Church, for the leaders that He's given us. We'd be in a world of hurt without them. Why wait for "Pastor/Staff Appreciation Month?" Right now would be a great time to do some random and spontaneous act of encouragement and love for our Pastor and Staff!

Click HERE to go to our Contact page, where you will find all the information needed to do something special TODAY.