Someone somewhere (Hallmark Cards?) has declared October “Clergy Appreciation Month.” Having served in ministry for 40+ years, I can personally testify that it is not a major church event in my religious fellowship. But I have received some very nice cards of appreciation through the years, and every one of them has come at an opportune time and has buoyed my spirits and encouraged my ministry.
We would do well to say “thank you” more often to those who feed our spirits and shepherd our souls. We would be blessed to recognize elders, ministers, teachers, deacons, and all others who provide leadership in our local congregations. We will be blessed and be a blessing when we say “thank you” also to their families.
Church leaders carry heavy burdens–responsibilities, care for the church, concern for the lost, and the need to live a meaningful life in the home, the church, the community, and the world. Church leaders spend countless hours in study and prayer, meetings and ministry. Their lives are not their own. They juggle many different roles. Church leaders of all kinds function best in an atmosphere of love and appreciation, freedom to dream and plan fresh ministries, and fervent prayer.
It is good that some will honor their “clergy” in October. But I want to expand the concept.
- I say “thank you” to all of my friends and those church leaders and ministers who have made a difference in my life, many of whom drop by this blog from time to time.
- I “officially” declare October a month of APPRECIATION FOR ALL CHURCH LEADERS–ELDERS, DEACONS, MINISTERS, PREACHERS, MISSIONARIES, TEACHERS.
- I ask you to pray regularly this month for those who provide leadership in your congregation.
- I encourage church bulletin editors and readers to pick up this idea and help spread the call for Church Leader Appreciation during October.
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you” (Heb. 13:7).