“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:15b 

Dear United Methodists of Upper New York,

Grace and peace from Jesus Christ be with you! 

During October, the church is celebrating Clergy Appreciation Month.

Serving as a pastor is a joyful calling. Pastors are vital in providing Christ-like transformational leadership and support to Upper New York (UNY) congregations and the community. They offer compassionate care and enrich our lives. Pastors are a source of inspiration and strength within the community. Serving as a pastor can also be a stressful calling, given the complexity of the realities and challenges we are facing in a fast-paced and constantly changing mission field. Very few vocations have the spiritual/emotional highs and lows as that of a pastor.

I thank God for all UNY clergy, whether serving local churches or in extension ministries. Their faithful leadership and sacrificial service bless many and inspire me. Their holistic well-being is a priority to the appointive cabinet and me.   

Some of the best ways you can show appreciation to your pastor(s) include praying for them and their families, respecting them, honoring boundaries, and supporting the ministry of your congregations. Also, SPRC teams are encouraged to regularly converse with their pastor(s) to explore meaningful contextual ways they can show your support and appreciation for their ministry.  

UNY congregations also can show appreciation for their pastor(s); 

1. Encouraging them to participate in the 2024 Bishop’s Retreat. This time apart provides a sacred space for rest, renewal, and fellowship with other UNY clergy.  
2. Help them fund a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Not only is this an excellent pastor appreciation idea, but it will pay dividends to your congregation. Your pastor will return refreshed spiritually and ready to impart fresh wisdom. You can learn more about UNY’s next pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 2024 here.  

I pray for God’s continued blessings in your lives and ministries. Thanks for who you are and all you do to live the gospel of Jesus Christ and embody God’s love with your neighbors. 

Together in mission,