As we observe October — often designated as Pastors’ Appreciation Month in the SDA Church — we pause to honor the dedicated men and women who have answered the call to pastoral ministry, and the families who walk alongside them.

The North American Division of the Seventh‑day Adventist Church recently reminded us:

“Each October, churches take time to intentionally express gratitude for one of the most important and often under-appreciated callings in the body of Christ: the ministry of the pastor and their family.” www.nadadventist.org

Why this matters

Pastoral ministry in the Adventist church is more than weekly sermons. Pastors comfort the sick, guide the young, encourage families, lead outreach, and walk with their congregations through both joy and sorrow. At the same time, the pastor’s spouse and children often share in the sacrifices of ministry: irregular hours, frequent moves, the weight of caring for many. Acknowledging their contribution is part of the appreciation.

How you (and your church) can show appreciation

• Pray: Lift up your pastor and their family (spouse and children) in your prayers. Their service carries spiritual, emotional and physical demands.

• Speak words of encouragement: A card, note, email or public acknowledgment conveys gratitude and support.

• Plan a recognition moment: During a Sabbath service or church gathering invite a brief acknowledgement of your pastoral couple and their family.

• Offer practical help: Simple acts such as a meal, yard work, babysitting, church-task help to lighten the load and show care.

• Celebrate the family: Recognize that ministry is shared. A note or gesture to the pastor’s spouse or children communicates “we value you, too.”

A word of thanks

To our pastors in the Lake Region Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and their families: thank you. Thank you for answering the call when it would have been easier to say no. Thank you for loving, even when it costs you. Thank you for standing in the gap, praying, teaching, shepherding and walking alongside us. Your labour is not in vain. We see you, we honor you, we appreciate you.

May this month (and the year ahead) be a meaningful time of encouragement and renewal for you.

“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” — Jeremiah 3:15