October is Ministry Appreciation Month

October is Ministry Appreciation Month

We request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work.               1 Thess. 5:12-13a

October has been declared “Ministry Appreciation Month” as an occasion to acknowledge those who work in service to the spiritual needs of others.

Ministry appreciation involves more than just clergy; those who minister do so in a variety of ways.  In addition to pastors, priests, and missionaries, remember the work of worship leaders, music ministers, Sunday school teachers, and prayer group and Bible study leaders.

Those serving in ministry are often “on the job” 24/7, making themselves available to their brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ. We all have people in our lives who nourish us spiritually and encourage us in our Christian walk. Whether these people earn their living through ministry is less relevant than the service they give to others out of a pure heart and devotion to God.

Here are some ideas of ways to show honor and appreciation.

• Bring them a meal, or make a special treat
• Write a letter telling them what their life, example, or service has meant to you
• Give a gift you know would hold special meaning for them
• Offer an evening of free child care or some means for them to have the opportunity to relax and refresh

Photo credit: G. Hayes

Appreciating those who labor in the Lord is close to our hearts at CelebrateYourFaith. See our favorite gift suggestions for these special people!