The Pastor's Wife & Mom - A Tribute

The life of a pastor's wife is at the same time beautiful, blessed, complicated and confusing.  Yet, it is one of the most important and vital positions in the body of Christ.

In so many ways, a clergy wife sets the emotional and spiritual tone for the household, and becomes both the enabler and the encourager for every member of the family.  She is a critic at the right time when correction is needed, but she is a listener and an affirmer when her husband and children just want to talk. 

She feels lonely at times, and overwhelmed with parishioners at other times. She wishes the congregation understood the nature of her husband's call, but sometimes wonders what it all means herself.

She is a wife and mother first. She desperately desires more time with the family unit, but understands "balance" is a luxury and management is a must.

For most clergy wives, work outside the home is not an option. It is a necessity just to make ends meet. For others, it is a means of escape from the telephone and the "joy-suckers". Some feel called to their lot in life, while others all of a sudden just became a pastor's wife. For some, it is unbridled joy; but for others, they wonder how long they can hang on.

Yet, they are God's gift to His church and to those who lead her. They do not get enough credit, attention or reward. If anyone in the church needs to be prayed for, it is the pastor's wife. They need space. They need consideration. They need understanding. They need lots of love.

So, pastor friend, when you pause to recognize the moms in your congregation - don't forget the mother of your children. And in front of the assembled folks, let them know just how empty your ministry would be without your precious mate. Salute and honor her, my colleague! She is a treasure.

Why not give this week's podcast a listen?  It also honors "Mom"!  http://www.podcast.hblondon.org/

We'd love you to give it a listen before Sunday if you have time.  HB

Comments

[Steve Zimmerman]

The church we atend has a woman Pastor. She is a wonderful leader and a great Pastor. Her call is as important as any man's call to be a Pastor. Her husband is a banker--they will get a good laugh out of your post on your blog.

[HB London]

Steve,thank you so much for your comment.
It should be noted I posted this specifically with pastor's wives in mind. That does not diminish nor ignore the fact there are women in pastoral ministry.
We are aware that 7% of clergy are female, and are just as thankful for their service to God, but we chose this post to be for the majority of pastors who's spouses are women.
Thanks again for taking time to read and respond!

[Steve Zimmerman]

I didn’t mean to be disrespectful; however, as the father of a daughter who is entering college this fall, I want only the best for her. If the Lord wants her to be a Pastor, I hope that the church will not close that door for her. My son will be graduating this December. He is a good kid but God would have his work cut out for Him if he wanted this kid to be a Pastor. He loves the business world. My daughter on the other hand has always wanted to serve the Lord directly. Peace in Christ Steve