“And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking,
saith the LORD” (Jer. 23:4).
It is with great gratitude that I write this letter today. This past Sunday we had a surprise Pastors’ Appreciation Day Feast. As I walked in the building, I felt a spirit of joy and celebration in the air. The tables were festively decorated with care and love. We are grateful for all of you who helped make this so special, and especially we thank God for our Hospitality Director, Tammy Brown, who coordinated the whole event.
We are delightfully overwhelmed by the display of love to us from the sheep and friends of Olive Tree Connections. The life of a pastor is unlike the life of any other calling on earth. To be appreciated for answering that calling is a gift that money cannot buy.
I received an email blast this past week from a pastor writing about the role of pastors. The article was entitled “The Physical, Spiritual, Mental, and Emotional Health of the Pastor.” I will share some of the quotes contained in that article.
“The landscape is littered with pastors who have broken down in some way. 1,500 pastors leave the ministry each month. No matter what survey you read, you will find statistics such as these: 80 percent of pastors report a general feeling of discouragement in their work; 70 percent report experiencing major distress; 33 percent report feeling burned out within the first five years of ministry; 33 percent say they have considered leaving the ministry; 45 percent report experiencing depressive or “burnout” symptoms to the degree that they believe they need a leave of absence (of which, very likely they have no possibility due to institutional limitations).” 1
“The same surveys show that while a significant percentage of pastors surveyed might think they are failing or falling short in competency, at least three-fourths of the members in the congregations would give their pastor an A or B in job performance.” 2
I delight in telling you how all of you have continued to make us feel as Pastors of OTC. You make us feel appreciated, respected, validated, loved and cared for. We are overwhelmed with the generous outpouring of thoughtful cards, letters, and financial gifts, but most importantly your love and prayers as we continue to serve you and your loved ones. As you have been loved, you have returned that love, creating a bond of unity among us all.
In all of my years in ministry, I have never felt more strengthened and determined to give all the spiritual food you need to fulfil your destiny. Testimonies are coming forth weekly of how the LORD has transformed you and blessed you.
It is a high honor for us to continue to serve you, as we serve the LORD together.
Thank you,
P/Karen, Fred, Patrick and Jazmine
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- RFI Oct. E-seed, Dr. Jeffrey Ham
- Ibid.
