Pastor Appreciation During a Pandemic

Church leaders are often overworked, stressed, sometimes lonely, and always underappreciated. So let’s all take the time to say “thank you” and to show your pastor or priest how grateful you are for all they are doing, not only for your church but also your community!

Here are just a few ideas to show your pastor appreciation:

1. Take the time to write a thank you note!
2. Drop off a meal or, better yet, invite him into your home.
3. Have your children record a video or write notes.
4. Decorate their office or desk: 
   • Leave a new inspirational mug 
   • Place some “thank you” Post-Its around the room
   • Fill their mug with their favorite candy or coffee pods
   • Make a poster board with picture memories and thoughts
   • Buy them a Spotify subscription to create an ambiance
5. Give them a gift card to a local coffee shop, restaurant, ice cream parlor.
6. Say thank you on social media (and have your congregants post too).
7. Buy them an online news or magazine subscription.
8. Wash and wax their car.
9. Buy them a book or bookstore gift card.
10. Leave them an appreciation treat every day for a month (get the congregation involved).
11. Celebrate their birthday and their anniversary as a church leader and don’t forget to to spread the word.
12. Pray for them everyday.

So show your church leaders some appreciation this month and every month. Think about the times of the year when your pastor or priest is particularly busy with congregant care and shower them with appreciation! Be sure to get your entire congregation involved in showing appreciation since many hands make light work. No matter what the time of year, a sincere “Thank you” will always work too!

Carol has worked in the ACST Marketing department and managed most aspects of marketing over the last 20 years. Before ACST, she spent many years handling marketing for companies across the US including, Novell, WordPerfect, Purolator Courier, ArtToday.com, and U.S.News&World Report. Carol is a cradle Catholic who has been active her entire life (a long time!) and has served in volunteer positions within her parish, including formation instructor, lector, code red responder, and numerous other volunteer roles.