I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy. Philippians 1:3-4
Dear Lay Leader,
October is Pastor Appreciation Month, and this year The Wesleyan Church is celebrating with a new theme –“Side by Side: Together in Ministry, United in Purpose.” Pastor Appreciation Month is more than just a chance to say “thank you” to your pastor. It’s a month-long opportunity to affirm who they are and what they are called to do.
Research shows us, (and my own personal experience speaks to this truth) that being a pastor is sometimes an isolating experience. And this isn’t new – we see these feelings arise in 1 Kings 19! After being part of a miracle where God defeated the prophets of Baal, Elijah finds himself feeling alone and discouraged. I’m sure your pastor isn’t always feeling discouraged or alone, but isolation is a feeling that pastors can often have.
This year, we invite you to affirm your pastor that they have a community of people caring for them! This month is your time to say “I am on your team, and we are working toward the same goal.” It’s an intentional moment to emphasize “I’m in this with you. I really care about you and I’m thankful for you.”
Social Media Contest
We have a special opportunity this year to help you demonstrate to your pastor that she/he is surrounded by a caring and supporting congregation – our social media contest! All throughout the month of October, you can upload pictures of members of the congregation with your pastor to Instagram and Facebook, using the hashtag #TWCPAM. Our team will select winners at random after October 31st. Prizes include:
- Free Books
- Amazon Giftcards
- SonScape Retreat Registration (GRAND PRIZE)
To help you get started, we’ve put together some additional graphics, social media copy, resources, and more in our downloadable resource kit!
Whether it’s a prayer, a special gift, or a handwritten note – there are so many ways to communicate to your pastor that they are not alone, that you care about them, and that you’re thankful for who they are and what they do.
We hope you use this month as an opportunity to make sure that your pastor knows that no matter what God has gifted them with and no matter what ministry leadership position they are in, they have people in their corner who care for them and thankful for them; people who are all united with the same purpose of reaching the lost and caring for His Church.
Joyfully serving with you and celebrating God’s work through you,
Rev. Carla Working
Director of Clergy Care and Development
Show Your Support!
Download the resource kit for promotional materials and suggestions that can directly benefit your pastor(s) and their families. Use these items and ideas as opportunities to show your pastor and their family that they are deeply appreciated.