Download the Pastor Appreciation Day 2023—When it is & how to celebrate all month long
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Pastor Appreciation Day 2023 is on Sunday, October 8. The whole month of October is Pastor Appreciation Month, and the second Sunday of October is Pastor Appreciation Day. This season is a special time to honor those who minister to us and celebrate the impact they make on our lives. It’s wonderful to know that your work is recognized, and your pastor will love to hear how much they are appreciated.
Pastors serve their churches all year long—preaching, praying, teaching, and taking care of their community. Sometimes it’s easy to take them for granted or forget to encourage them and celebrate their work.
Taking time to acknowledge their hard work is also a biblical practice. The Apostle Paul reminds us of the importance of recognizing the work of those in ministry:
Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
If you are a pastor or church leader, please know that our team here at Subsplash loves and appreciates the impactful work you do for the kingdom! And for those of you who aren't a pastor, we’ve compiled several ways to say ”Thank you, pastor” and make Pastor Appreciation Day 2023 the best ever!
Whether you know it or not, your pastor needs to hear they are appreciated. Like the rest of us, they face hardships and trials that can steal the joy that comes from ministering.
Here are some fun ways you and your church can celebrate Pastor Appreciation Day and share encouraging words for your pastor all month long.
Create a “Thank you, pastor” video featuring members of your community. You can create a simple setup in your church building to record these messages, or ask your church members to make a quick recording on their own mobile device to send to your team. Compile and edit these snippets to create a personal and heartwarming video.
Your pastor will love watching this tribute during your church service on Pastor Appreciation Day. You can also share it to a wider audience on your church website, mobile app, and social media channels.
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Plan a fabulous night out for your pastor and their significant other—certificates for a dinner at their favorite restaurant, movie tickets, or tickets to a concert or special event—anything so they can enjoy a special evening together. If your pastor has little ones at home, don’t forget to arrange for a babysitter!
This fun pastor appreciation idea will create special memories for the entire church. Surprise your pastor on Pastor Appreciation Day with thank you cards, special gifts, and flowers for their spouse.
You can throw a party after the service with food, snacks, music, and games. Have a group of church members ready to express their gratitude for all of your pastor’s hard work.
There’s something special about sharing a meal with your family and friends. Hosting a church picnic or barbecue is a fun and meaningful way for the whole church to come together in honor of your pastor’s special day. Don’t forget to find out your pastor’s favorite dishes and any dietary restrictions—that attention to detail will go a long way in making them feel recognized and celebrated.
We all know the physical and emotional toll that burnout can have on the body—and your pastor is no exception. Your pastor’s hard work is important, but so is taking time to rest and recharge! Provide them with some time off to spend with their family on a vacation to refresh their mind, body, and spirit.
To do this, ask church members, friends, and family if they have any vacation properties that the pastor could use for their vacation. Find out their favorite theme park and get them day passes. Or maybe the pastor wants a quaint B&B to rest, read a book, and have some quiet time. It’s amazing what a little break can do to help us relax and feel refreshed.
Coordinate with your congregation to share handwritten letters, notes, or cards with your minister this Pastor Appreciation Month. Be sure to personalize your letter by sharing stories and testimonies of how they have impacted your life through a recent message, Bible study, interaction, or conversation. To make it even more special, consider giving them a gift card or invite them to get a cup of coffee with you sometime.
Showing that you care about your pastor shouldn’t be limited to one month or day each year. Celebrate other special pastor-related events throughout the year, such as their birthday, wedding anniversary, or personal achievements.
We know that your pastor’s job isn't easy. It often requires long hours, hard conversations, and tough decisions. But it also can be rewarding and fulfilling. God is working through them to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth, and that is the best mission in the world to be a part of.
Pastors, please know that you are loved, your work matters, and our team here at Subsplash is so thankful for you! Happy Pastor's Appreciation Month!
