By Terry Smith, vice president for U.S. Alliance Church Ministries
I’ve dubbed 2020 “The Year of the Asterisk.” It will forever be known as the year when nothing was normal and everything was out of kilter. That certainly applies to church ministry. In the midst of the abnormal and ever-changing circumstances presented to us by the Covid-19 Pandemic, our Alliance pastors have stepped up and met the challenge. When congregations couldn’t meet in person, pastors scrambled quickly in March to create or increase an online presence, preaching into a camera or computer each week. I “attended” Facebook Live worship services, Bible studies, and prayer meetings all led by Alliance pastors. I’ve heard story after story of this increased online presence drawing more people than normal onsite attendance.
Additionally, pastors found creative ways to shepherd their flocks, to keep their people engaged and connected. And they led their churches in reaching out to people in the community in a variety of ways – meals to school children, drive-through food banks for those in need, grocery shopping for elderly people, practical encouragement for medical personnel on the frontlines of treating people with the virus, and much more.
October is Pastor Appreciation Month. I was the October recipient of kind words, cards, and gifts for years as a local church pastor and was always encouraged by these demonstrations of love. It’s appropriate each year to appreciate and honor our pastors, but it is all-the-more appropriate this year. Pastors have worked harder than ever. They have been involved in making difficult decisions and, at times, have taken undue criticism for those decisions. I’m hearing stories of weary pastors who could use some words and tangible expressions of encouragement.
If you are a member of a congregation reading this, would you please carefully consider how you might be able to appreciate and encourage your pastor? If you are a pastor, please know of my deep gratitude for you and all you’ve done in keeping ministry moving forward in this crazy year. I can’t shake your hand or throw a brotherly hug around your neck. I wouldn’t be allowed to do that even if I was with you. So here’s a virtual high five and a big hug. Well done, Alliance pastors!
P.S.: If you’re looking for ways for your entire congregation to come together to honor your pastor this month, the National Association of Evangelicals has some great suggestions on its Bless Your Pastor website.