Getting Help for Ministry

One of the most important activities for leaders is to include others in service. It also seems to be one of the most difficult, for several reasons. For some it is a matter of, “if you want a job done right do it yourself.” Others feel they are “pestering” people with small jobs that could just as easily be done by a few rather than by increasing the number of people involved. I have noticed that the main reason, however, is that leaders too often feel the are burdening people with tasks as opposed to encouraging them with opportunities.

Paul makes it clear we all have a part in the building up of the church, and, I pray we will begin to include everyone in our options for servants. When we do not ask people to take on opportunities we are limiting their joy and ownership of the mission of our congregation. Doing it ourselves robs our members of the grace of giving time and energy to God’s purpose at La Habra Christian Church. Asking for too little undermines the truth that no opportunity is considered to small to contribute to the success of reaching the lost. Begging for help instead of asking for service misses the big picture of our mission and purpose.

Here are some suggestions to help you the next time you have a chance to invite members to serve in a particular capacity:

Ask personally rather than rely on announcements. Remember that you're not looking for someone to “volunteer;” you’re looking for someone to commit to a ministry.

Develop strategic recruiting partnerships – build your network or a recruiting team. Don’t go it alone.

Recruit short-term project teams. The more specific the time limit, the more people you'll likely get to join you in help with a project. And short-term commitments might open the door to longer commitments.

Assume that a “no” means “not now,” or “not this position.” Think of a “no” as an open door to listen carefully to the reasons behind the “no.”

Develop roles and responsibilities or a ministry description for each position. Don’t fill any position until you find the person who matches what you're looking for.

Recruit specific people for specific roles.  (Adapted from The New Breed: Understanding & Equipping the 21st Century Volunteer, Group Publishing, 2013)