Saying “Thank You” to Those Who Lead Our Church

“The elders who are good leaders are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.” 1 Timothy 5:17, CSB

October is Pastor Appreciation Month, so I’d like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for not just my pastors, but for pastoral leaders in the entire body of Christ.

Paul expressed to Timothy in his first letter that those who labor in preaching and teaching should be considered worthy of double honor. Honor can be defined as “high respect, esteem.” The body of Christ is charged with honoring those who bring forth the word of God and lead the church (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, 1 Peter 2:17, 1 Peter 5:5, Hebrews 13:17). Church leaders likewise have a charge to lead well and not abuse their position of leadership, as they are held accountable (1 Peter 5:1-4, Hebrews 13:17). In keeping with the word, let us respect and esteem not only our own pastors, but also all those who take on the mantle of pastoral leadership.

Here at Gospel Community Church, we are blessed with pastors and teachers who sincerely love God and seek to do His will. Since 2012, I’ve observed them in several capacities – as my pastors, as my colleagues, and as my brothers in Christ. In all of these roles, they have remained steadfast to the call of God not only in their positions of leadership within the church, but in their personal walks as well. They have consistently sought to grow spiritually not just as pastors, but as men. They encourage one another; hold one another accountable; and lead their congregation to do the same.

So THANK YOU to our pastors and church leadership for all you do for us and the city of Lynchburg! May you continue to walk by the Spirit as Gospel Community Church loves God, grows in community, and reaches out with the love of Christ!

Be an Encouragement: Pastor Appreciation Month 

The work of a pastor is both unique and challenging; this month, we invite you to show your appreciation for our pastors, their wives, families, and our church leadership and staff as a whole. Keep them in your prayers! And consider choosing something from this list to show them some encouragement:

1) Pray for them and their families
2) Send them an encouraging email or a handwritten note of gratitude
3) Ask them how you can help
4) Drop off some coffee and pastries at the church offices—or some pizzas!
5) Coordinate with your community group and do an act of service for them (make a meal, tackle a house project, babysit and send them on a date night, etc.)
6) Pick up a gift certificate to a favorite restaurant or coffee shop

Click to learn more about our church leadership and how to contact them.

Revisit this post from one of our elders, Jeff Boyer: “Why Pastor & Leadership Appreciation Month Matters”

About the Author: 
Dorian has been attending and serving with Gospel Community in various capacities since 2012 and is currently attending the College Hill campus. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in business and a Master’s in Theological Studies. Besides contributing to the GCR blog, she also enjoys serving the Lord through her personal blog and running her business.