On behalf of the entire clergy of the Diocese of Lagos, I will like to say a very big thank you for your support towards the clergy. I pray the good Lord who said ‘if you give a cup of water to His servants you will get a prophet’s reward’ will bless you beyond measure.
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 the congregation 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 when the timetable is out. We will also have our clergy ministering in other churches.
It is an excellent time to formally recognize and thank those who minister to us.
Why not consider special ways of celebrating and appreciating the under-Shepherds which God has given you? In this assembly, we haven’t done badly, but we still can do better. Imagine a world without priests and pastors?
Clergy appreciation is the sign of a healthy church.
Practically, showing appreciation serves two purposes:
· First, the expression of gratitude is a positive witness, showing your community that God is loving and merciful.
· It also 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;
· And at death, 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, GIVE GENEROUSLY and God will appreciate you.
We will take a retiring collection in aid of this from next week
Have a glorious week and may it very joyful.
Your Vicar and friend.
The Revd. Canon Kiri Wakama
