As October approaches, churches have the opportunity to participate in Pastor Appreciation Month: a special time set aside and an opportunity to intentionally express our love, gratitude, and encouragement to the pastors who faithfully serve our churches. The Wesleyan Church’s Pastor Appreciation Month theme, “Side by Side,” invites us to stand with our pastors in both words and action. As a pastor herself, Rev. Carla Working sees the benefits of Pastor Appreciation and offers a few suggestions for creative ways to support your pastor.
Encourage your pastor
While appreciation acknowledges the value of someone’s work, encouragement goes a step further—it inspires and strengthens someone to keep going. We are wired to thrive on encouragement. The Apostle Paul reminds us to “encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV). Pastors need encouragement- not false compliments or praise, but sincere reminders to keep fighting the good fight and finish the race. A kind word, a handwritten note or a simple affirmation can go a long way in encouraging your pastor.
Let your pastor know they have your support
In shepherding a congregation, pastors often carry heavy emotional and spiritual burdens—many of which they cannot openly share.This can result in feelings of loneliness or isolation. Even in the presence of a loving congregation, pastors can become weary, pouring themselves out continually in service to others. Feeling isolated in ministry is not a new phenomenon; the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 19), withdrew in discouragement after a victory battling the prophets of Baal.
One powerful way to combat isolation is to build genuine community with your pastor. Invite your pastor to an outing just for fun- no church talk or obligation to be in the pastor role. Pray for your pastor and let them know about it! Provide an opportunity for your pastor to lay down his or her pastor’s hat at a church event and participate with the congregation. Though we all have different roles and responsibilities, we are all part of one body of Christ with a common goal to further the Kingdom. Stand beside your pastor and let them know you are there!
Document memories with your pastor
During the month of October, The Wesleyan Church is hosting a contest to help congregants show love for their pastors. Members of congregations are encouraged to post pictures of themselves with their pastors on social media with the hashtag #twcpam. From the posts, random winners will be picked to receive prizes along with one grand prizewinner. A contest like this is fun, but the real benefit is creating a memory with your pastor. Pictures pop up in the future and serve as a reminder of the bonds pastors have made in their ministry.
Give your pastor a tangible gift
Who doesn’t like to receive a gift? Whether it is a monetary gift, a gift card or some other token of appreciation- it goes a long way in expressing gratitude. Find out where your pastor likes to eat and give them a gift card to that restaurant. Offer to babysit your pastor’s kids so they can have a free night. Be generous and creative in giving to let your pastor know you care.
Stand by your pastor’s side
Whether it is a tangible gift, an act of kindness, or a word of encouragement- take time to appreciate and encourage your pastor. Let’s not miss this opportunity to stand side by side with our pastors this October—and beyond.
To learn more about Pastor Appreciation Month and ways you can support your pastor, visit https://www.wesleyan.org/event/pam-2025.
