“And now, friends, we ask you to honor those leaders who work so hard for you, who have been given the responsibility of urging and guiding you along in your obedience. Overwhelm them with appreciation and love!” 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 (MSG)
Every October, churches across the country pause to celebrate Pastor Appreciation Month—a wonderful opportunity to recognize those who pour themselves into leading, teaching, and caring for God’s people. But the truth is, pastoral appreciation shouldn’t be limited to one month a year.
A pastor’s visible ministry—the Sunday service—is just the tip of the iceberg. Beneath that preparation stands countless unseen hours of study, prayer, counseling, hospital visits, leadership decisions, and spiritual intercession. Pastors carry an immense, often silent weight as they shepherd their congregations with faithfulness and compassion.
One of the most powerful ways a church can show appreciation is by giving back the gift of time. Offering your pastor opportunities for rest, family time, or spiritual renewal is not only an act of kindness—it’s good stewardship. A recharged pastor leads more effectively, loves more deeply, and serves more joyfully. Providing margin for rest is an investment—in your pastor’s wellbeing, your church’s health, and ultimately, the Kingdom’s work.
There are many practical ways to bless your pastor with more time and space to breathe. Consider organizing a small team to handle yardwork or household maintenance. Offer to babysit their children so they can enjoy an evening out or a quiet day of rest. Provide meals during especially busy seasons like holidays or ministry campaigns. If your church is able, fund and send your pastor and spouse/family on a weekend getaway. As an elder board or leadership team, be intentional about helping your pastor build in appropriate rest and true vacation time—encouraging rhythms of Sabbath that sustain long-term ministry. These tangible acts of care speak volumes of gratitude and love.
At Servant Solutions, we understand the unique demands placed on those who serve the Church. For more than 75 years, we’ve walked alongside pastors and ministry staff to provide biblically sound, ministry-focused retirement planning. We offer lower-than-average fees, values-aligned investments, and free financial planning for every member. Our mission is simple: to give pastors financial security so they can continue making a Kingdom impact, both now and in retirement.
Pastors, we encourage you to choose one act of rest this week. Take a day off, share the load, or ask for help. If we can support you with planning or resources, reach out. We are here for you.
Nate Bowers serves as the Director of Financial Education for Servant Solutions. He leads initiatives to engage new and current members, as well as ministry organizations, to address and meet their financial education needs. He also helps advance the organization’s financial planning efforts, offering professional and pastoral care to guide members. Nate holds an MBA and bachelor’s degree in Finance from Anderson University. Prior to his pastoral calling and ministry, Nate worked in corporate and small business finance, including positions at Lilly and Roche Diagnostics.