The month of July is ‘Clergy Welfare Month’ for us in the Diocese of Lagos. During which period, there will be exchange of pulpit among priests, to sensitize us in raising support for priests, and especially those in the rural areas, retired priests and widows of priests.
We are expecting that by God’s grace, a guest priest would be with us sometime in the month to share the word with us, on the need to support and appreciate the clergy.
It is an excellent time to formally and publicly recognize and thank those who minister to us. Though we may affirm them often, why not consider special ways of celebrating and appreciating the under-Shepherds which God has given you?
Clergy appreciation is the sign of a healthy church and healthy churches want to pay tribute to their pastor through loving acts of gratitude.
Practically, showing appreciation serves two purposes.
- First, as already stated, expression of gratitude is a positive witness, showing your community that God is loving and merciful.
- A second practical result of honoring pastors is that it creates an atmosphere that encourages the response to the call of God to the pastoral ministry.
But, may the greatest clergy appreciation gift given by our church be the gift of a healthy church, ready to share God’s love not only with our pastors but with our community. We will appreciate any ideas for us as a church to share with our local community.
Back to our pastors, the bible tells us that “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.” 1st Tim. 5:17, and “Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.” Gal. 6:6
As was the case in the earthly ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ where His ministry was facilitated by some people who provided Him with:
- A resting place in the home of Lazarus, Mary and Martha;
- A donkey for mobility;
- Venue for His last supper with His disciples;
- A tomb where He was buried; etc
Your pastor needs your support to fulfil his ministry.
“Don’t you know that those who work in the temple get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” 1st Cor. 9:3-14
Its clergy welfare, appreciate your pastors, and God will appreciate you.
Have a glorious week, and may it very joyful.
Your Vicar and Friend.
The Venerable Kiri Wakama
