Thanking Our Pastors (a message to KCD laity)

During the month of October, I hope that every pastor on the Kansas City District will be honored in an affirming, joy-giving way.

Several years ago, some “pastor doomsday stats” were going around insinuating that pastors are miserable, depressed, and ready to leave their positions of ministry altogether. To the contrary, a 2015 LifeWay survey revealed that only a tiny fraction of pastors are leaving the pulpit each year.  But it also revealed that being a pastor can be tough. It is challenging work that, done well, contributes to the flourishing of whole churches and communities. Done poorly—and without proper support from the congregation—it can quickly lead to burnout.

The 2015 LifeWay Research poll revealed this about pastors’ work-life balance:

·     84 percent say they’re on call 24 hours a day

·     80 percent are dealing with tense situations and difficult conversations in their church

·     54 percent find the role of pastor frequently overwhelming

·     53 percent are often concerned about their family’s financial security

After 20 years of pastoral ministry and 12 years as a “Pastor to Pastors,” I have a clearer understanding of the weight of their burdens, the enormous extent of their responsibility, and the range of their various shepherding opportunities.  Pastors lay it on the line for the flock daily.  They feed, tend, protect, nurture, and guide.  Often shepherds are called away from home and family at all hours of the day and night to minister beside a hospital bed or in a home facing a family crisis.  Being a pastor is often a 24/7 responsibility.  If your pastor is able to keep a confidence (and I hope that is the case), then no one knows all the burdens she/he is carrying.

We know firsthand that our loving actions or words can go a long way in maintaining the spirits of our pastors and their families. Using tangible “thank you” ideas to express gratitude is a special way to honor the clergy and thank their devoted family members. Here are some suggestions to put to use during Pastor Appreciation Month:

·     Pray for your pastor

·     Plan an appreciation banquet in honor of your pastor

·     Creatively communicate words of encouragement to your pastor

·     Give an appreciation basket that includes thoughtful cards and gifts for your pastor, pastor's children, and spouse 

·     Be aware of the unique needs of the pastor’s children by providing financial help for camps, youth group retreats, NYC, or mission trips

·     Surprise your pastor and spouse with a cruise or vacation package to a special destination you’ve heard them talk about

In addition to encouraging your pastor, a second practical result of honoring pastors is that it creates an atmosphere that encourages others to respond to the call of God to pastoral ministry.  A positive, healthy church produces those called of God to serve in Christian ministry.