Pastor's Wives Q & A - Kellee Synesael

Kellee Synesael has served in ministry for the past 11 years, most recently planting West Village Church in Victoria, B.C., a few years ago alongside her husband Chris. As a pastor's wife and mother of 3 children (ages 10,9 & 6) she knows all too well the beautiful chaos that is the life of a pastor's wife. Amidst her chaos, she took the time to answer the following questions which highlight the intersection of the life of a wife, mother & leader.

What is the hardest aspect of being a pastor’s wife?  

Sometimes I find it very difficult to share my husband with so many other people. There are many people pulling for his time and energy and every once and awhile I don't want to share!

What is one thing you wish people knew about being a pastor’s wife? 

 I guess that there is no on/off switch to the job.  It is our life. 

What do you love most about being a pastor’s wife?  

I love that I have the opportunity to speak into other's lives. I can encourage, love, and serve others.  I guess that a person can do those things without being a pastor's wife, but it's still awesome!!

What are 2 or 3 practical thing you do to maintain your personal relationship with God?  

I have found that carving out specific time on my own to spend with God is key. For me it's early in the morning when the house is still quiet. I sit in my rocking chair with my Bible, journal and coffee. I journal my prayers with God. It really helps me to concentrate.  Lastly, is praying all the time to the Spirit of God. He's my helper, friend, comforter, and guide. I find that I am a wreck, always in need of help, and am learning to use the Spirit more. It's been so encouraging! 

Do you take a leadership role in your church?  

I am currently administering our kids program at the gathering.  

How does the gospel apply to your identity as a pastor’s wife? 

There are a couple of things that I have learned. One, is that I can't fix anyone. And I don't even need to try. I don't need to be in control!  Almighty God is in control and doing an amazing job. I find myself trying to take over His job.  

Second, I find myself needing to impress, and finding fulfillment in what others think of me. When I was hit over the head with the gospel, I understood better that Jesus, my saviour, is already impressed with me. There is nothing I can do or not do that will change His love for me. So I don't need to be approved by others!   

How do you support your husband?  

I enjoy staying home and taking care of our household and family. I know that my husband loves that our home is something that he doesn't have to worry about, and he is able to find rest here.

What is a practical way you could use support on a Sunday or throughout the week?  

Prayer!  Most definitely!  We are on the front lines as far as leading, discipliship, and mission. I don't want to lose focus on what I am called to do - to make disciples. 

What is the balance between doing nothing in the church and doing everything? 

I think asking the Spirit what your role in the church is. It is so different for every pastor's wife. If the Spirit is asking you to serve by welcoming in new people then do that and don't feel bad about saying no to everything else. Or maybe it's a season of doing nothing. Because the nothing is usually something : ). Listen to the Spirits leading. 

Please continue to keep Kellee and her family in your prayers. Feel free to leave her a comment of encouragement.