Easter Greeting to Our Pastors

A message of gratitude, renewal, and resurrection hope

Written by Captain Johnny Valencia, Corps Mission Secretary

Dear Pastor,

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

As I compose this note, I recognize that each of you will read it from a different geographic location and from a different physical and emotional state. So let me begin by blessing you, your family, and your ministry, and by reminding you that your labour is not in vain. Your ministry is vital as The Salvation Army continues moving forward together, Christ-centred and others-focused.

While ministry is filled with joy and fulfilment, it also presents its own challenges from time to time. Sometimes you wonder whether people see your fatigue, and other times you wonder whether your efforts are truly making a difference. The truth is that the hours of hard work serving others in tangible ways, the many more hours spent preparing sermons and Bible studies, and the countless hours of pastoral visitation and prayer on behalf of others all serve as a conduit between your people and the love of Jesus.

When you say, “God bless you,” when you smile, when you pause for an intentional conversation, when you pray for others, when you guide, when you show kindness and compassion, and when you walk alongside others, you are impacting their lives in a very significant way.

Thank you, because no matter what comes your way, you still go the extra mile to serve others and reveal the truth of salvation through your ministry. I deeply appreciate your ministry and your love for your congregation and community, day in and day out.

I pray that our mighty Lord will bless you with rest when you need it, healing where there are wounds, wisdom for decision-making, courage for the journey ahead, and a fresh touch of His Spirit, so that your ministry flows from a place of renewal and joy.