So, what does a pastor do when he’s not in the pulpit? That’s a great question because it changes so much depending on the pastor and the situation, the gifts he has and the call he’s been issued. I was called as an “outreach” pastor, so I make sure to reserve four slots of time a week to making outreach visits and talking about Jesus to people who aren’t a part of our church (approx. 10 hours a week). I was called to shepherd the flock gathered at Abiding Grace, so that means shut-in visits and hospital calls, counseling in my office and answering the questions I’m texted and emailed (approx. 10 hours a week). Our congregation knows the importance of outreach, so meetings are scheduled around visit time, which means a few later nights or longer Sundays, but it’s worth it (2 hours a week).
Then there are the Bible studies to prepare for and teach, including Sunday morning and Wednesday night, Bible Information Class and individual classes for those who can’t make the group class, and Building on the Rock, our class for developmentally disabled (approx. 15 – 20 hours a week). There is the devotion for Mommy Mornings and the conversations with those who stop by church during the week, whether that is just to say hi or because they really need a Christian ear (time length really depends on the week). There are circuit meetings and conferences, travel for synod and district work, writing projects, and conference calls that seem to fill in any gaps on the weeks our vicar is preaching or teaching. There are community events and workdays that probably average one Saturday a month. And, oh yeah, working on that sermon too, so that God’s people get a good meal of his Word applied to their lives when I am in the pulpit. That’s between 10-15 hours as well.
I’ve learned with all that going on and the many “balls in the air” of ministry, it’s important to schedule time that you protect (as well as you can) for your family. For me, that’s a couple of hours in the afternoon before visits on Tuesday and Wednesday, Friday afternoon and evening, and then as much of Saturday as possible. Sure, there are a bunch of hours of work in that schedule, but I get to do what Christians long to do, and it pays the bills too!! I know plenty of members who work and then spend time volunteering at church. For me, it all gets to be one job. Not a bad gig if you can get it. In other words, I thank my God regularly for giving me the opportunities he does to be a part of this amazing kingdom work. And I thank you for all you do to support and encourage your pastor.
Pastor Jonathan Scharf
Abiding Grace in Covington, Georgia
October is Pastor Appreciation Month, a time to thank called workers for faithfully preaching and teaching God’s Word to us. Not sure how to thank your pastor this year? Let him choose a gift with an NPH e-gift card!