If your pastor or clergy member is doing a great job, why not give a special gift that will show your appreciation and spread happiness?
Often, a pastor's salary is disproportionately low to the level and number of duties that correspond to that position. Some people take opportunities to let spiritual leaders know how special they are by presenting them with meaningful gifts during Clergy Appreciation Month or at other times. If you're not sure what to give your pastor, here are a few ideas:
1. Restaurant gift certificates. Many times the pastor's spouse is likewise involved in ministry, leaving little time for domestic duties like cooking and cleaning. Even if the spouse cooks dinner, the pastor may not have time to eat before being called away for a church member's needs. Receiving a restaurant certificate helps anyone feel pampered, and the pastor will enjoy sitting down with a spouse later to a quiet dinner that requires no clean-up.
2. Personal service. Regarding the aforementioned domestic duties, your pastor will greatly appreciate a helping hand with lawn duties. Even if you are helping with the church lawn, the pastor's grass grows just as fast as the other, and someone who's willing to mow it and free up the pastor's schedule from this task will be greatly valued. Offer to paint the shutters, cook a meal, clean the house, or baby-sit their kids.
3. Thoughtful gifts. Like the rest of us, many pastors can't afford an extra book to read or a special reference work. If you're aware of one that has been on the "to get" list for awhile, give it at the next celebration, such as a holiday, birthday, or anniversary. Even needed implements, like a new rake, juice glasses, or slipcover, will be appreciated if you know that's what the pastor could really use.
4. Advocacy. If you see the pastor needs a break or the church needs new pews, speak up at a church board meeting. Your pastor may not want to ask for things all the time, and is sure to appreciate church members' support for items that should be replaced. Some churches provide a sabbatical for their pastors, providing a paid leave of a month or longer for rest and recovery from burnout. Don't hesitate to recommend this policy if your church does not yet have it, along with anything else that may be lacking.
5. Donations. Your congregation may wish to collect a love offering for the pastors at Christmas or another time of year. This special gift shows appreciation and adds a little spark to the pastor's life. If your congregation doesn't do this, you might care to send a small check at a meaningful time to show how your appreciation for the pastor's hard work.
Everyone likes to feel appreciated. Think of ways like these to help your pastor realize that he is valued by church members who care enough to offer something a little extra.
