October 20, 2011

 

Dear Pastor/Associate Pastor,

 

As October winds down, we want to express our appreciation for you and this high calling that you engage in so faithfully.  The demands of ministry are such that unless you have been a pastor or associate pastor you can't really know what it is like.  We have had people tell us they have a child who is a pastor so they totally understand the rigors of ministry.  We realize they may have a better understanding than many people, but until you've been there and done that you cannot fully appreciate it.

 

Thank you for juggling multiple expectations of people in your congregation and staying focused on the main thing - making more and better disciples. Expectations include church handyman and custodian, personal chaplain and best friend, master communicator who is more interesting than the best TV preacher or mega church pastor, generous philanthropist, adept administrator who is always focused on the big picture... you get the picture.  Everyone in the church seems to have a different job description for you, and no Spirit filled human can meet those often unrealistic expectations.  Dealing with all kinds of expectations can make it challenging to be good stewards of our God-given abilities and spiritual gifts and to stay focused on the mission.

 

Thank you for the sacrifices you make to be in ministry.  Sometimes (like most Mondays) we all think a job outside the church looks so appealing, and we long to have a normal job.  We get that.  Those of you reading this note do too.  This high calling has captured your hearts and you know this is what you must do.  Heaven applauds your dedication and commitment.  The world needs your ministry.

 

Indiana Ministries prays for you during the course of the year.  If there are special needs you have that you would like to share with us, it will allow us to pray even more specifically for you.  We know that pastors and associates and their families deal with all kinds of needs, and you may at times feel like there is no one to lift you to the Father.  We will, and if you direct us we will keep the prayer request confidential. 

 

May God bless you and your family richly.

 

Serving Together,