September 29, 1999
GRACE & PEACE:
Please observe Pastor/Staff
Appreciation Sunday
___"For even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account." (Philippians 4:16-17)
___Every day provides opportunity to express appreciation to the pastor and staff of your church, but one day is set aside for a special emphasis on appreciation. This year, the Sunday for Pastor/Staff Appreciation Day is Oct. 10.
___The Baptist General Convention of Texas minister/church relations office providesideas and information for this day.
WILLIAM M. PINSON JR.
Executive Director
BGCT Executive Board
___Included in those appreciated certainly should be the spouses of those who serve the church as pastor and staff members. These people make possible ministries that benefit many people as they provide encouragement and support to pastor and staff. They also often minister directly.
___Few people are aware of the heavy responsibilities and multiple ministries carried by the pastor and staff members of a church. Most pastors are "on duty" seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Calls in the middle of the night related to emergencies are not uncommon. Weekends given to weddings and funerals or to church social activities or special events are frequent. Concern for people in difficulty or suffering illness or grief takes a toll.
___Those who serve the Lord as pastors and church staff members do not do so for the money, because in most cases salaries are not excessive. Often a minister's spouse must work in order for that person to serve in ministry "full time." A multitude of pastors and church staff members work in another job to make enough money to support their family and thus are bivocational. Such above-and-beyond service certainly can be taken into consideration on Pastor/ Staff Appreciation Day.
___The possible expressions of appreciation are numerous, and each church will determine what is most appropriate. Some will shower the pastor, staff members and spouses with letters and cards of appreciation as well as personal comments. Other churches will give gifts or provide for some time away from the heavy responsibilities carried. Still others may "take over" the responsibility of each staff member for this Sunday, allowing them to enjoy participating without the duties that go with leading. The members of the last church I pastored did all of these one Sunday, and it made for a delightful, meaningful and even fun-filled day.
___Who should take the lead in planning and conduction a Pastor/Staff Appreciation Day? Again, this will vary from church to church. In some cases, it will be the deacons. In another, it may be the personnel committee. In others, it may be an informal network of people who assume the opportunity to express appreciation. You may need to take the initiative in your church. Whoever is leading the effort may contact the minister/church relations office of the Baptist General Convention of Texas for ideas and materials: 333 North Washington, Dallas 75246; phone, (214) 828-5169; e-mail, maples@bgct.org.
___Please pray for the pastors and staff members who provide servant-leadership for churches throughout our state. Pray for their families. And pray for those who are planning and conducting the Pastor/Staff Appreciation Day in your church.
Contents/ Masthead / Why We're Here / Links / Archive / E-mail us/ SUBSCRIBE!
