After over 20 years of pastoral care, deliberate studies, discerning prayers, and a plethora of things done simply by faith, the idea of pastor appreciation is an odd celebration to me. I am not saying that a pat on the back is not a wonderful feeling, but why do we need such a month at all? Ministry is a unique animal that bears no consistent predictable outcomes on how people will react. The weight, at times, seems too heavy to carry. The demands can seem insurmountable and unattainable. There is no way around that any form of ministry carries stresses and struggles. If our congregants were aware of this, appreciation would be a daily celebration. But there is a truth that we need to be reminded, ministry would be easy if were not for people. If your idea for ministry is to be liked, I would invite you to consider selling ice cream instead.
Pastor Appreciation Month is necessary because people often simply forget. A pastor must deal with different personalities and their personal expectations of you as a minister of the Gospel. Because we are limited as human beings, it is impossible to please everyone. I am a recovering people pleaser. I desire everyone likes me. I mostly think through theology 24-hours a day, even at family functions and my kid’s sporting events. Our congregations often do not consider what a pastor must protect in their calling. What boundaries should we set to safeguard our physical, emotional, and psychological health, especially when entrusted with confidential matters by those who rely on us? The pinnacle of all of this are the sideways jokes that a pastor only works one day a week and for only a couple of hours. This makes us feel unappreciated for everything that goes unseen, not done before observation. While there are times of great blessing, we can also be carrying terrible hurt. This is a considerable part of why ministers leave their calling. Ministry hurts!
If you are reading this as a pastor, no matter how your church or churches are doing, you are appreciated. You are fighting the good fight, day in and day out. While dishing out blessings towards the flock that you lead, you might not be feeling the same in return, Jesus appreciates you. For what we are called to do is not for the adoration of man, but for our deep love of God, who has called us to be His shepherd. You are loved. You are called. You are appreciated.
- Rev. Chad A. Troup, Doctoral Student, Winebrenner Theological Seminary