Encouraging YOUR Minister

I hope that in the over 20 years that I have been in the ministry the services that I rendered were considered valuable in each situation at some point.  In each situation I have been compensated for services rendered per an agreement made before I was hired.

I always knew that ministry was NEVER about the money…to that end, I frequently have “signed on” for salary that was less than average for someone with my experience and education.  In some cases I received exactly what I signed up for.  In other cases I received the salary that was contractually agreed upon plus MUCH, MUCH more in what I might call “perks” that I or my family received to show that we were valued by those we were serving.

In my experience I can unequivocally state, some congregations know how to love their ministers (and show their appreciation) and some don’t. It is as simple as that. I don’t know anyone in any position that does not like to know that their contribution is valued.  A “well done” or “I appreciate you” is always welcome but often it is not enough for some people to overcome the struggles that accompany ministry.

It would be too easy to say more money means satisfaction.  It is not that easy.  Especially in this difficult economic time money can speak volumes but in MOST congregations that have been adversely affected by the financial downturn money is not going to be the solution.

Allow me to offer ways that you can encourage you minister that are low cost or err on the side of financial responsibility (in no specific order):

R.A.K.—random acts of kindness on your minister and their family will speak volumes.  I see these as small tokens of appreciation.  If congregants are unhappy or have issues they are quick to communicate it with EVERYONE!!  If you appreciate your minister be just as quick to tell them, and others, verbally, in writing (send a card), etc…the point is that you are making the effort to communicate with them your appreciation.

Hobbies--Often people in the congregation have hobbies that result in products to share: gardening (all ministers LOVE food—especially fresh and homemade), woodworking (handmade items show you care), one of our ladies knew my daughter was wanting something to keep her ears warm during cold spring track practice so she knitted her some “ear muffs” in my daughter’s school colors!! This option offers nearly endless varieties to show how much you care and chances are it is something that you are already doing in your spare time.  Don’t assume your minister wouldn’t be interested…by definition they are interested in what interests you!

Take them along—getting out of the office is always a welcome diversion.  Where ever you are going and whatever you are doing for your day trip…invite the minister or their family to tag along. Going fishing at your favorite spot?  Share it with your minister.  Going hiking on your favorite trail? Ask their family to join you. Taking a shopping day at your favorite antique or flea market?  You might be surprised to find out that they were looking for an opportunity to look for a specific item. It need not cost much money, nor should it be seen as a long term commitment (you don’t have to invite them EVERY time)—but again—they are looking for opportunities to share what you like and vise-a-versa.

Work days/projects—I believe that most people don’t consider this options because they don’t want to add to what they perceive as their minister’s already busy schedule.  But these times offer options—maybe you can do something for someone else together—thereby sharing time (where you can express your appreciation), and helping someone else in the process.  Maybe there is a project that needs to be done at THEIR home or at your home—this may be an opportunity to teach someone a new skill while you are expressing your appreciation in verbal and tangible ways.

Give Up—I know this sounds radical…but this is a way to make something BIG happen for your minister that they may not be able to do for themselves.  Many folks today have time shares, cabins, frequent flyer miles, etc… ALL things that could be used by your minister as well as yourself.  Why not invest in your minister and family by giving up your week at the beach to them?  Imagine their face when you offer them the keys to your cabin for a week of their choosing.  The reality is that it is not costing you anything more than you already spend—BUT you are sacrificing your time for them. Isn’t that what you expect of them when a loved one is hospitalized, there is an unexpected tragedy, a death in the family, in fact, are they not “on call” ALL the time for you?

The list could be endless. Here are some things to remember. Yes...you help to pay your minister’s salary by putting money in the offering each week.  NO…that does not make them your employee—they do what they do because they love the people they serve and they serve the people they love.  The Psalmist says that “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.”  Therefore, whatever we “possess” we have received from the hand of God. Would we not be poor stewards (or at least selfish) if we didn’t share what God has allowed us to manage?

Little things matter. From a minister’s perspective…you have NO idea how difficult it can be.  Conversely, you have no idea how much difference little things done to encourage can make.

I am thankful for those people who have, and do, continue to encourage and share in my ministry—I could not have done, or be doing it without them.  Others have tested my faith, and caused me to doubt my calling…but I am thankful for them too because I have learned from them (even if it was the hard lessons, the hard way).

I believe…help my unbelief.