On average, 90% of pastors work over 45 hours a week, but this year hasn’t been normal. A recent study shows that, pastors have increased their workload to 55-70 hours per week. See Saying ‘Thank you’ to your pastor.
October is designated as Pastor Appreciation Month with a mission of uplifting and encouraging pastors, missionaries and religious workers. Throughout October, take the opportunity to show your gratitude for the hard work your pastor does. Here are a few ideas:
- Give a special church donation: Charitable giving has dropped, and these gifts are vital to your church’s mission. Give a special gift in your pastor’s name. Then, write a note expressing how the pastor has positively influenced your relationship with God.
- Activate others to donate: Inviting a friend, neighbor, co-worker, and others to donate to your church’s mission causes is a wonderful way to show your pastor you value them.
- Engage to the fullest: Engage with your church beyond the walls by downloading your church app, watching your live stream, participating in prayer requests, and sharing social media posts.
- Give a monetary gift: Monetary gifts are thoughtful, and there are a variety of ways to present these. Cash trees are easy and fun to give. You can also give gift cards to the pastor’s favorite restaurant, bookstore, or grocery stores.
- Update technology for the church: Technology can make a pastor’s job much easier. Collect funds to update and replace old computers, dated church management systems, and sound systems.
- Medical/Food supplies for ministry: Right now, ministers are out in their communities helping people that are suffering. Depending on your church’s current mission efforts, they could use extra supplies. Call your church and ask what items are needed most.
- Volunteer: Volunteer in your pastor’s name to help fill a need such as extra cleaning duties, community outreach programs, and other leadership responsibilities.
A final thought …
Remember, if you don’t know what your pastor would appreciate most, ask office assistants, close friends or family members. Trust that no matter what you give as a token of appreciation, your pastor will love and cherish it.