One of the most important things about ministry, leadership, and life in general is to learn from others. As I speak with leaders, wives, and mother's across Canada I find that shared stories are one of the most powerful ways we learn and grow. With this in mind I am interviewing a number of different Pastor's wives from across Canada to hear from them about what is working, what is not, how they connect to God, how they connect to their church, balance family, and whatever else comes up! Hopefully this series of interviews is helpful to you.

Tami Johnson, North Delta BC

I had the privilege to serve alongside Tami years ago during our time at South Delta Baptist. Her husband Mark currently serves as Lead pastor at North Delta Evangelical Free Church. Tami is wise, passionate and exudes joy. You can’t help but smile when she is in the room. Tami & Mark have three grown children.

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

You are married to someone who is real and human. He has real emotions and natural responses to real life situations.

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

I love my life!! I love being connected with people who live their lives to serve God. I love being able to come along side people to are struggling and need encouragement to seek God. I love meeting new people showing them the way to a relationship with Jesus.

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

I make sure I take responsibility for my own spiritual walk/growth. I have a quiet time in the morning. I lead a small group and am involved at times with a ladies bible study.

Do you take a leadership role in your church?

As we integrated into a new church, I realized the positions I may have served previously were already filled by extremely capable people. I waited to see where God wanted me to serve. I have served as interim small group leader for a couple of small groups as their leaders went off to bible colleges.

Our second year at our church I was diagnosed with breast cancer and the church was extremely supportive. The leadership role I stepped into was one of leading through adversity. Someone actually gave me a hug in the parking lot and said, “the people are watching you”. God is merciful and carried me through the journey. It’s amazing how people watch.

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

It’s not about me…The gospel…that’s why I’m there. I’ve experienced the gospel and that’s why I’m here, to share the gospel

How do you support your husband?

I pray for him. I listen to him. I give him freedom to be where he needs to be, I'm available to be with him. He is my best friend. We are a team and yet individuals.

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

Accept me for being me. I’m no one special, I am an average woman who loves the Lord.

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

The best thing to do is to come along side a team of women (people) and serve with others. I don’t feel the need to do it all or to do nothing. Its about working side by side with others where God has called you and developing a working relationship with others in the body of Christ.

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

Pastor's Wive's Q & A