With the beginning of fall and all the festivities of the season, Ministry or Pastor Appreciation Month often times goes unnoticed. It is the one month out of the year when Christians are asked to show their appreciation for their pastor.
As someone whose parents refused to attend church, I often have been surrounded with negative talk about pastors. In fact, I do not believe a week has gone by over the last year in which something negative about a pastor has not been said by my father or in society. People are quick to point out failures of pastors. After all, pastors are spreading the truth of God. I think people often forget that pastors are human and never meant to be thought of as perfect because no one is perfect. We are all sinners. That being said, my pastors, just like all pastors, have made a tremendous impact on my life and this month all pastors should be honored. Therefore, I have included some gift ideas to show your pastor he matters this season.
Buy His Family A Gift Card To A Restaurant
Pastors are some of the lowest paid individuals. They tend to make substantially less than their congregations and suffer great financial hardship. I hardly know any pastors that have the honor of eating out on a regular basis. Why not surprise his family with a night out?
Send His Family On Vacation
Pastors are the hardest working individuals I know. I never realized how hard pastors worked until my husband starting working on staff at a church. They work constantly between counseling, teaching, returning phone calls/emails, planning events, visiting those who are sick, praying for the congregation and the list goes on and on. Often times, their family is left behind. Pay for the family to go spend time together away from church, town and reconnect with one another.
Offer to Pray
Your pastor prays for you continually no matter when you need prayer. Why not ask your pastor if he has a prayer need and then commit to pray for him daily. Send notes or emails of encouragement.
Bake, Bake, Bake
What pastor doesn’t like food? Why not surprise your pastor with home cooked goodies for a whole week. Muffins for breakfast, cookies for snacks, cake of appreciation, gourmet lunch, etc. Get creative and let him know you care by filling his stomach.
Send the Pastor and Spouse on a Personal Retreat
Pay for the pastor and spouse to spend time alone with each other and God. Provide babysitters for the kids. Allow the couple to get away with no distractions and re-energize and revitalize their marriage and walk with God.
Gift Card to Christian Book Store
Pastors love to read. Why not surprise them with a modest gift card so they can buy what the pastor has been longing to buy.
Do Odd Jobs
Can you change the oil in your car? Why not offer to change your pastor’s oil in his car? Or offer to mow his lawn. Or repaint or clean his house. Show up and wash his car. You can show your appreciation in other ways besides gifts.
These are just a few suggestions. You can create a movie in which members of the congregation recall fond memories or thank the pastor. You can make a giant card signed by the entire congregation or create a scrapbook with special messages. These suggestions are just to get your creative juices flowing. Get to know your pastor and show your appreciation for all his hard work this month.
