"We prayed for our pastors on October 14th. It was a spirit-filled experience for both the pastors and the congregation."—Pam, Osseo, Minnesota, on Clergy Appreciation 2007. It is thrilling to express appreciation to clergy and their families who serve us across the church! October is established as Clergy Appreciation Month and every congregation is encouraged to lift up the women and men who have been entrusted with a precious assignment— the spiritual well-being of their congregation. It is a great opportunity to say "thank you" to those faithfully serving the Kingdom because of God's call on their lives. The word of God affirms vocational ministry as one of God's highest callings. God gives the church pastors and teachers "to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Ephesians 4:12). Clergy are God's gift to His people and are worthy of recognition for their willing service. As we look to the future, honoring those currently serving the church establishes a nurturing environment for those who have yet to answer God's call to full-time ministry. The clergy you want to honor will certainly include your senior pastor as well as members of the pastoral staff. There are over 13,500 individuals in the Church of the Nazarene (in Canada and the U.S.) who serve as pastors, associates, compassionate ministry directors, district and general church leaders, teachers on college and university campuses, evangelists, chaplains, missionaries, and those active in retirement. You are encouraged to take an opportunity to express appreciation to the elders, deacons, and district licensed clergy in your congregations.
A legacy of trust is given to those who enrich the soul. Theirs is a call to sacrifice and faith. Although they would be gifted and qualified to do many other things in life, God has a divine appointment for the clergy to be persons set aside for His unique call and ministry. //READ MORE

 

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