Clergy and support organizations
Members of clergy and support organizations often are overlooked for their efforts because their help is perceived to be "just their job". Nevertheless, those people deserve our thanks for actions and attitudes that extend beyond what's expected.
So take every opportunity to express your appreciation for the clergy and support services available to you and the community.
"I want to express my gratitude for****"
"Thank you for your expression your concern when you visited my mother in the hospital before her death."
"You have made a meaningful contribution to my life, and I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your time."
Often, people think they are giving a stronger commendation when they are global in their comments, such as "You are always so supportive". Actually, just the opposite is true. A specific, rather than global, commendation sounds more sincere. Comment specially on what the person has done that was so meaningful or special to you or your family or the community.
Remember, also, that individuals----not institutions----do meaningful, sacrificial work. So comment on the individual's personal dedication to the service he or she provides and the people served. For example:
"You have demonstrated remarkable commitment."
"Your personal sacrifice is very evident to observers."
"Your personal warmth shines through the community role you play."
"Your genuine goodwill and personal concern are evident."
If you are writing to ask for help, be sure to make your request for any action specific. And provide all details to make the requested action easy to take (for example, copies of past correspondence or phone numbers and addresses of people you wish to be contacted on your behalf).
Finally, remember that members of the clergy have the same need for emotional support and recognition and the same family and individual concerns as other members of society. Show your appreciation accordingly and often.
Welcoming new clergy to congregation
Dear Reverend Salm,
My family and I are so happy that you've come to settle in the Guiding Light Parish at Clearwoods, Virginian. Although I plan to introduce myself to you in person after the worship services this weekend, I didn't want you spend a whole week in your new town without receiving a welcome form someone.
We've all heard such wonderful things about you from Reverend Greg. He speaks very highly of your academic credentials as well as your commitment to establish programs in the Parish that benefit the whole family. Even though we are sad to see him go, I think we all consider ourselves fortunate to have you join us here to serve God in our little corner of the world.
I look forward to meeting you in person.
Sincerely,
Welcoming new service organization
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Sanatti,
Welcome to Greenburgh. My wife and I are overjoyed that you have decided to established a chapter of Kid-Tractor here. Your presence will relieve part of our fear that one day the worst could happen----that not only could we lose our child, but we would have nowhere to turn for help or comfort.
As soon as the local Kid-Tractor is up and running, we plan to bring in our two sons and one daughter for finger printing and photo records. Everything we as parents and ministers can do to protect our children certainly merits our time and attention.
We are aware of the success that you've had in other communities, and I'm sure that that will be the case here as well. You two must be very caring individuals to have committed all your spare time to this important support service.
Sincerely,
Expressing appreciation to clergy
For sermon
Dear Father Teal:
I want to be the first to tell you what a wonderful sermon you preached last Sunday. I was touched by your message, and am deeply grateful for hope and faith that you inspired in me.
This last year has been a difficult one for me, and I sometimes find myself questioning God's wisdom, if not His existence. Some commitment that you made the other day about trying to hang on to one's faith really hit home. So did your advice on how to maintain and strengthen one's relationship with God. Your words encouraged me to see the world, my purpose, and my life in a different light.
It is important to me that you know that you did reach someone. I am deeply appreciative for your hours study and you capable delivery of God'd word.
All my thanks,
Expressing appreciation to clergy
For Baptism
Dear Minister Carver:
The baptismal ceremony in which you baptized our granddaughter, Elizabeth Martin, last week was both meaningful and inspiring. Thank you for making the beginning of my granddaughter's walk with God such a memorable event for her and the family.
Your comments during the ceremony fully explained to all present the significance of such a symbolic act. I especially appreciate your time spent in visiting with Elizabeth both before and after the ceremony to help her understand fully that commitment at this time in her life. In keeping with your message, my husband and I will do our best to further her growth as she applies her knowledge of the scripture to her daily life.
When Elizabeth was born, we promised that we'd dedicate her to the Lord's service, and we intend to continue with that commitment. We feel fortunate that our family has you as leader and counselor in our church and community.
Sincerely,
Expressing appreciation to clergy
For Sympathy and Support
Dear Pastor Allen,
As you know, this last month has been a very difficult time for my family and me. Brran's sudden diagnosis and hospitalization took us all by surprise. Your comfort in our time of need was greatly appreciated, as it is now.
Thank you so much for visiting Brian and us at the hospital. Your frequent presence there was a constant reminder of God's care and the congregation's concern, even when times seemed hopeless.
You'll be happy to know that Brian has been released from the hospital and is resting comfortably at home. If he remains his regimen, the doctors predict a slow but full recovery. Thank you for giving so freely of your time in our time of need.
Warmest regards,
Expressing appreciation to clergy
For holiday service
Dear Pastor Fendley:
I want to commend you on a job well done. Last Sunday's Easter service is beautiful to observers, inspiring to the participants, and meaningful to all of us as a reminder of the historical event and religious significance we celebrate.
Obviously, you and your staff spent long hours in planning the service, selecting the appropriate music, coordinating the visual and media support, and preparing the message. After 40 to 60 hours in the world of work every week, we members of the congregation appreciate a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle and reflect on our higher purpose in life. You provided the opportunity once again Sunday, and I thank you.
Sincerely,
Requesting personal character reference
Dear Reverend Hornsby,
I am in the process of updating my re'sume' and would like to include some new reference letter as I begin my job research. Would you be willing to provide a character reference letter for me? If so, you can simply address it "To It May Concern" and send it to me at my home address listed on the church records.
As you are probably aware, corporations have become increasingly concerned about the character and temperament of their potential employees. With violence in the workshop growing and unethical behavior a blot on any company's record, prospective employees want to know that those they're considering for hire are honest, trustworthy, and stable individuals.
Just as a reminder of my work in the church, I began attending the Eternal Light Church in 1994. During my time here, I have involved myself in a number of church activities, including volunteering for the monthly brunch for newcomers, working during the clothing drive, and sponsoring several youth events and trips.
For your convenience, I am enclosing a copy of my re'sume' so that you have a better idea about the kind of position I'm seeking and can tailor your comments accordingly. Thank you for taking time to provide this reference.
Sincerely,
Requesting counseling from clergy(for friend)
Dear Pastor Soledad,
A very good friend of mine is in trouble. He is depressed, and I no longer feel as though I can handle the problem on my own. He has agreed （with much prodding on my part）to seek counseling, and I recommend you to him.
Could you please work him into your busy schedule as soon as possible? If so, please let me know your available appointment time and I'll arrange for him to be there. It's not that he is unwilling to come for counseling; it's that his depression has left him in a very lethargic mood and I fear he'll not take the initiative to call himself.
His name is Chris Madero, and he lost his wife about a year ago. She had had a lengthy disease, and needless to say, Chris was devastated by her death. Six month later, however, he began dating an old acquaintance (who incidentally just lost her father). They are planning to marry and I'm afraid that, in their vulnerable, grief-stricken states, they are running into something they are not ready for.
Neither of them appears to be really happy with their wedding plans, but I don't think they have the strength of will to change or postpone them either. It seems that they both need something positive to cling to. I hope that you can help them.
You can reach me during the day at 415-7849 or in the evening at 899-9999 about available appointment times. Thanks so much for making your expertise open to the community.
Sincerely,
Requesting counseling from clergy(for yourself)
Dear Father Nguyn:
Lately things have been difficult for me. Although I don't feel acute depression, I simply have trouble finding meaning and keeping interested in activities that I used to find enjoyable.
Being rather unfamiliar with working of the church behind the scenes, I'm unsure if you offer counseling to nonmembers of your congregation. (I attend, but am not a member.) If so, how should I go about scheduling an appointment? Do you charge for such personal counseling? Or could you recommend someone who might offer me some advice and/or peace of mind?
Let me give you a little background: A little over a year ago, I lost a very good friend in a car accident. She was the mother of three beautiful girls and the wife of a loving husband. Since the accident, I have seen the remainder of the family fall apart over their grief. I myself am consumed with the idea that the same thing will happen to our family someday. It seems ridiculous that I should be so concerned with such notions; nevertheless, I am beside myself with these thoughts.
I don't know where else to turn, because our financial situation is such that I cannot afford counseling from a private clinic or counselor. Having attended your church for so long, I have come to trust your judgment. I'd appreciate your call (477-399), suggesting the next step in dealing with the issue.
Sincerely,
Inviting clergy to be guest speaker
Dear Reverend Daimler,
I am a member of a wonderful support group for the adult children of terminally ill parents. Once a week we meet on the Wakefield University campus to share coping ideas, encouragement, and inspiration. Whenever possible, we like to hear speakers as well. They can be particularly helpful on the days when we just can't seem to inspire ourselves.
Reverend Daimler, I think you'd be the perfect speaker for such an event. Would you consider attending one of our upcoming meetings (Wednesday, June 15, would be terrific) to speak to this group, which so desperately need your guidance? You are free to choose any topic. The meeting participants practice a wide range of religious; so if at all possible, I recommend that your comments be ecumenical.
We meet every Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the Kasha Room in the Everett Library. I've enclosed a map to help you find your way around the Wakefield campus. If you decide that you can find the time to speak to our group, I need a couple of days' notice so we can plan accordingly. And if you'd like to attend a meeting beforehand to get a feel for the group, please feel free to drop in.
I realize that you have many demands on your time and will understand if you cannot speak to our group. If your answer is positive, I'll appreciate a call at 478-9985. On behalf of the whole group, thank you for considering our need for an encouraging message.
Sincerely,
P.S. As you may have guessed, we have no budget at all. We don't accept dues or donations (except for time), so we cannot afford to pay for our speakers. Even under those circumstance, we hope to hear from you.
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