Pastor’s Family Appreciation Month: Honouring Those Who Shepherd God’s People
Posted: October 21st, 2026
Every October, churches across North America observe Pastor Appreciation Month. In the Ontario Conference, we have extended this observance to Pastor’s Family Appreciation Month, a special time dedicated to recognising and thanking pastors and their families for their faithful service, spiritual leadership, and commitment to God’s people.
Pastors and their families play an important role in the life of the church. Pastors preach God's Word, provide spiritual guidance, offer encouragement during difficult times, and help believers grow in their faith. Their families share them with the congregation, making their “invisible” support an essential part of the pastor's ministry.
The Bible reminds us of the importance of appreciating and respecting those who labour in ministry. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13, the apostle Paul encourages believers to acknowledge those who work diligently among them and hold them in high regard for their service. Similarly, 1 Timothy 5:17 reminds us that those who lead well, especially those who labour in preaching and teaching, are worthy of double honour.
Pastor’s Family Appreciation Month offers congregations a meaningful opportunity to express their love and gratitude through thoughtful words, prayers, acts of kindness, and tangible gestures. Whether through a special recognition service, a heartfelt message, a family gift, or simply spending time encouraging them, these expressions remind pastors and their families that their dedication, sacrifices, and faithful service are deeply valued.
As we celebrate this special month, let us thank God not only for our pastors but also for their spouses and children, who generously share their loved ones with the church. Let us pray that God will continue to strengthen, encourage, and bless these families as they serve His people with wisdom, humility, and faithfulness.
On behalf of the entire Ontario Conference family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our pastors and their families for your unwavering faithfulness, compassionate leadership, and commitment to proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ.
To our pastors, thank you for the countless hours you devote to preaching, teaching, counselling, praying, and caring for God’s people. Your spiritual guidance, encouragement, and faithful presence have been a source of strength and hope through life's joys and challenges.
To our pastoral spouses and children, thank you for the sacrifices you make, the time you share, and the love and support you provide. We recognise that ministry often extends beyond church responsibilities and into family life. Your patience, understanding, prayers, and encouragement are precious gifts to the church and to the work of God.
May the Lord continue to bless each of you, renew your strength, and fill your homes with His peace, wisdom, and joy. May you find encouragement in knowing that your labour in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Your dedication and sacrifices are deeply appreciated, even when they are not always publicly acknowledged.
A Special Appeal to Our Congregations
As October draws to a close and we prepare to enter November, I encourage every congregation that has not yet had the opportunity to honour its pastoral family to set aside a special time in the coming weeks to do so.
Even amid busy church schedules and numerous ministry activities, let us be intentional about expressing our gratitude. Appreciation should never be limited to a particular month; it should be part of our ongoing culture of love, encouragement, and care for those who serve among us.
Let us honour not only those whom God has called to shepherd His flock but also the families who faithfully stand beside them.
To all our pastors and pastoral families across the Ontario Conference: Thank you for your faithful service, your sacrifices, and your love for God and His people. You are valued, appreciated, and remembered in our prayers.
Pastor Frankie Lazarus
Ministerial Secretary, Ontario Conference