23 Oct 2025, 18:59SM CommunicationsScotland, United Kingdom
Congregations Across Scotland Express Gratitude to their Pastors
October’s Pastor Appreciation Month highlighted the dedication, care, and spiritual leadership of pastors across the Scottish Mission, as congregations honoured their tireless service and commitment.
October is a special time in many churches, celebrated as Pastor Appreciation Month, with Pastor Appreciation Day observed on 11 October this year – a tradition rooted in the Apostle Paul’s call to honour those who lead faithfully and well (1 Timothy 5:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:11-13). Recognising the demanding nature of pastoral ministry – often carried out with deep emotional, mental, and spiritual commitment – several churches in the Scottish Mission took the opportunity to honour their pastors for their tireless dedication and faithful service presenting them with thoughtful gifts, plaques, and cards signed by members.
One pastor commented that pastoral work can often feel isolating and exhausting, and that this moment of appreciation made him feel “valued.” Others shared that these gestures left them feeling “appreciated and empowered,” highlighting the importance of recognising the often unseen work of spiritual leaders.
“Our pastors carry enormous responsibilities, often putting the needs of others before their own,” reflected Glasgow church elder Phelomen Mukangiliye. “Setting aside one day each year to recognise and thank them is the least we can do. However, appreciation should not be confined to a single day; it should become a daily practice. We must continue to show love, respect, and gratitude, and uplift our pastors and their families in prayer every day.”
Extending thanks on behalf of the Scottish Mission officers and administrative team, President Jimmy Botha shared: “We are deeply grateful for the commitment, compassion, and resilience of our pastors who serve across Scotland – often in challenging circumstances and with great faithfulness…We also want to extend heartfelt thanks to our departmental sponsors, local church leaders, Executive Committee members, and support staff who share their time, energy, and gifts in service to God’s mission. May God’s grace continue to guide, sustain, and uplift you in your ministry.”
As we take this opportunity to pause and reflect, let us continue to uphold our pastors in prayer, gratitude, and daily acts of love, recognising their unwavering commitment to God’s work and the spiritual growth of our congregations. May this month serve not only as a reminder but as an inspiration to honour, support, and encourage those who shepherd us faithfully throughout the year – and to carry that spirit of appreciation into all our relationships, noticing and valuing the people around us each day.
Resources: Elder's Digest | Pastor Appreciation Day
October’s Pastor Appreciation Month highlighted the dedication, care, and spiritual leadership of pastors across the Scottish Mission, as congregations honoured their tireless service and commitment.
October is a special time in many churches, celebrated as Pastor Appreciation Month, with Pastor Appreciation Day observed on 11 October this year – a tradition rooted in the Apostle Paul’s call to honour those who lead faithfully and well (1 Timothy 5:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:11-13). Recognising the demanding nature of pastoral ministry – often carried out with deep emotional, mental, and spiritual commitment – several churches in the Scottish Mission took the opportunity to honour their pastors for their tireless dedication and faithful service presenting them with thoughtful gifts, plaques, and cards signed by members.
One pastor commented that pastoral work can often feel isolating and exhausting, and that this moment of appreciation made him feel “valued.” Others shared that these gestures left them feeling “appreciated and empowered,” highlighting the importance of recognising the often unseen work of spiritual leaders.
“Our pastors carry enormous responsibilities, often putting the needs of others before their own,” reflected Glasgow church elder Phelomen Mukangiliye. “Setting aside one day each year to recognise and thank them is the least we can do. However, appreciation should not be confined to a single day; it should become a daily practice. We must continue to show love, respect, and gratitude, and uplift our pastors and their families in prayer every day.”
Extending thanks on behalf of the Scottish Mission officers and administrative team, President Jimmy Botha shared: “We are deeply grateful for the commitment, compassion, and resilience of our pastors who serve across Scotland – often in challenging circumstances and with great faithfulness…We also want to extend heartfelt thanks to our departmental sponsors, local church leaders, Executive Committee members, and support staff who share their time, energy, and gifts in service to God’s mission. May God’s grace continue to guide, sustain, and uplift you in your ministry.”
As we take this opportunity to pause and reflect, let us continue to uphold our pastors in prayer, gratitude, and daily acts of love, recognising their unwavering commitment to God’s work and the spiritual growth of our congregations. May this month serve not only as a reminder but as an inspiration to honour, support, and encourage those who shepherd us faithfully throughout the year – and to carry that spirit of appreciation into all our relationships, noticing and valuing the people around us each day.
Resources: Elder's Digest | Pastor Appreciation Day
