Pastor Appreciation: What Makes a Shepherd Great?

October is Pastor Appreciation Month—a time to pause and say “thank you” for the incredible dedication, compassion, and leadership of our pastors. At Wesley United Methodist Church, we are deeply blessed to be led by Pastor Don Long Jr. and Pastor Melly Momo, two faithful shepherds who care for our congregation with love, grace, and an unshakable commitment to God’s calling.

When we think of what makes a great shepherd, we often picture Sunday mornings—powerful sermons, inspiring prayers, and heartfelt worship. But the truth is, that’s just one hour of the week. The other 167 hours are filled with quiet acts of service that most of us never see. They spend countless hours praying for our congregation, lifting up names and needs before God. They visit members in the hospital, celebrate baptisms and weddings, comfort families in grief, and walk alongside us through every high and low of life.

Pastors don’t just prepare messages—they prepare hearts. They listen, they counsel, they encourage, and they help us grow in faith. They spend evenings at meetings, early mornings in study, and spare moments checking in on someone who’s been on their mind. Their ministry is woven into every part of church life—seen and unseen.

This month, as we celebrate Pastor Appreciation, let’s take time to thank Pastor Don and Pastor Melly for the love and leadership they pour into Wesley. Write a note, send a card, or simply tell them how much they mean to you. Most of all, keep them in your prayers—because even shepherds need tending sometimes.

“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”
— Jeremiah 3:15