Clergy Appreciation Month

In my research travels I've come across many interesting concepts that other countries are using to care for clergy and their families. This one in particular caught my eye as quite unusual...the first I heard of it I had visions of elaborately staged events with formal wear and glittering trophies..."and the most sermons preached in 2014 goes to....".


Actually...maybe that wouldn't be so bad (who doesn't want an excuse to wear a tux or glamorous dress...)

This idea is a little less glitzy but perhaps more interesting and much more personal: "Clergy Appreciation Month is a special time that congregations set aside each year to honor their pastors and pastoral families for the hard work, sacrificial dedication and multiple blessings provided by these special people."
- Thriving Pastor

I come from a clergy household, so this got me thinking. The purpose of ministry isn't to 'toot your own horn' or show off your skills as a pastoral leader or family. I'm sure there are many biblical verses that can be cited to confirm this point. However, I do think that recognition is crucial in any job, to any person, in any community. Regardless of your calling or 'just doing God's work', it can be a tough vocation and can be even more difficult when you feel you shouldn't get recognition. Maybe these guys are onto something? Maybe it's a bit too 'glitzy', but I think it's something worth website looking at.

~ Rachel
http://www.australianclergyfamilies.com/ministry-appreciation-week