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Pastor Appreciation Month

You may have known that October is Pastor Appreciation Month. I just found out today.

I would like to express my appreciation for some pastors who probably won’t get appreciated as Pastors publicly, in front of congregations, because a school didn’t give them initials or titles to put at the beginning or end of their names.

My Dad. Roy Piña is in charge of Children’s Ministries at my home church. He has been serving there for at least twelve years, and has spent that time making a huge impact on both the lives of children, and also their families. He is a welcomer of the New, and an encourager of the Long-Time.

Tony Biasell. Tony is the Associate Director at Calvin Crest. He has been a coordinator, supporter, encourager, deliverer, and conversationalist for countless college students, and has made an enormous impact on me, and several of my friends. His faith is transparent, his love for God is evident, and his desire to share his journey is significant.

Jamie Barker. Jamie is the Director of The Dakota House, an inner-city neighborhood ministry in Fresno. She has an amazing impact on this neighborhood via her relationships with the children and many of their families. She has visited the sick, imprisoned, and the needy, both in and out of the neighborhood. Jamie loves to watch Jesus change lives.

Pastors, know that you are appreciated.


1 Comment

I am still reading all your posts even if I’m not commenting. Still getting into the pastor setting aside the pulpit to be an at-home-dad role. Not as much time to type.

I am glad you recognize those called to ministry who aren’t ordained ministers of the word and sacrament. My Presbyterian ancestors went to great lengths to treat all officers of the church with equal dignity. Our vows are identical be we deacons, pastors or elders. The Reformed faith has always held that everyone is called. We all have a vocation. We are all working for the kingdom of God. God calls to and uses people in pastoral ministry who he doesn’t call or ordain to minister of the word and sacrament, and for that we can be very thankful.

Thanks for highlighting and appreciating these who have offered their lives for service, and been used by God for his kingdom.

Posted by Bill Ekhardt on 3 November 2006 @ 2pm

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