Pastor Appreciation Sunday, celebrated annually on the second Sunday in October, is a good time for United Methodists to thank clergy for the work they do year-round.
Here are ideas for how to express your thanks:
R&R
As a church, plan and contribute for a getaway for your pastor and their loved ones. Consider a nearby location where your pastor can get some rest and relaxation, as well as spend quality time with their family. This could be a hotel, vacation rental, or park facility.
Take it outside
You already know that pastors are busy. Ask your pastor for a list of outside chores that need to be completed at their home and then gather a small group to help. Perhaps your church can sign up to mow the pastor’s yard each week or a few members can weed gardens and rake leaves.
Say nice things
The simplest way to show gratitude to your church’s clergy is to share compliments. This may mean speaking highly of them to others or saying “thank you” to them in person, or via text, phone call, or a handwritten card. Everyone enjoys hearing kind words. Extend this courtesy to your pastor’s family.
Keep your pastor on your prayer list
Prayer is huge. Pray for your pastor each day, keeping in mind the particular need or challenge your pastor may be facing. If Tuesday is sermon writing day, pray that God will guide and direct your pastor’s words. On Sundays, pray for God to use your pastor to share words that connect with others.
For additional suggestions on how to best pray for your pastoral staff, visit “15 ways to pray for your pastor.”
Say it with food
United Methodists are good at feeding others. Prepare and share meals, or ask where your pastor and their family enjoy eating out, then offer gift cards to their favorite restaurants.
There is no shortage of ways to express gratitude to our pastors. For more ideas, check “(More than) 10 ways to appreciate your pastor.”
Crystal Caviness works for UMC.org at United Methodist Communications. Contact her by email.
This story was published on September 30, 2020, and updated on September 10, 2026.
