A letter from the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Since the early 1990s, October has been recognized globally as Pastor Appreciation Month, with the second Sunday set aside as Pastor Appreciation Day.
Our pastors care for us through life’s most significant moments. Their work goes far beyond Sunday sermons—involving hospital visits, counseling, administrative leadership, and late-night emergency calls. Because much of this labor happens behind the scenes and requires strict confidentiality, ministry can often be isolating, impacting both pastors and their families.
Honor and rest are directly tied to long-term sustainability. Scripture calls us to actively value those who shepherd us:
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.” —1 Timothy 5:17
“We ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you… Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.” —1 Thessalonians 5:12–13
October gives us a dedicated opportunity to pour back into those who pour into us. Here are a few practical ways you and your family can show gratitude:
- Personal notes: Write a heartfelt card or letter sharing how their ministry has impacted your life.
- Tangible blessings: Offer gift cards, a financial love offering, or dinner for their family.
- Acts of service and rest: Help lift operational burdens or encourage them to take dedicated rest and sabbath time.
How will you and your family celebrate our pastors? Let’s make this a joyful, church-wide expression of love.
Peacefully, simply, and together,
Harry Biddle, Chair
Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee
— The Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee is a committee of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference that serves as an advisory group on all referred pastoral compensation matters and provides a regular review of pastoral salaries and benefits, with an annual recommendation for adjusting the cash salary table for pastors. The committee also works with the Ministry Office of the denomination. Find out more about their work
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