Children’s ministry is undoubtedly a sacred and holy calling, filled with the joy of shaping young lives and reaching families for Christ. But anybody who has been working in kids ministry long enough knows that the work of the children’s ministry leader goes beyond working with children and managing departments; it’s about cultivating a culture where volunteers feel valued, equipped, and passionate about their roles. But let's be honest: leading a volunteer team can sometimes feel like herding cats… on roller skates… during a fireworks display. Or maybe that’s just me! (Deep breath) Fear not, brave leader! Here’s your guide to inspiring your team to serve with excellence, with a dash of humor to keep things light.
Discover the Superpowers
Every volunteer on your team has a superpower waiting to be discovered. Some might have the storytelling skills of a Pixar writer, while others might have the organizational prowess of Marie Kondo. Your job is to find these hidden talents and let them shine. So, take the time to get to know your volunteers. What are their interests? What are they passionate about? You might discover that the quiet guy in the back is a wizard at creating engaging visual aids, or that the energetic teenager has a knack for organizing chaotic play areas. Once you’ve identified their strengths, assign roles that align with their talents, not your needs. When volunteers are placed in roles that utilize their strengths, they are more likely to feel fulfilled and motivated.
Sharpening the Tools
Even superheroes need training (just ask Batman). Equipping your volunteers with the right skills and knowledge is crucial for maintaining excellence in your ministry. Schedule regular training sessions that cover essential skills and new strategies. Make these sessions interactive and fun—think of them as a mix between a TED Talk and a game show. Provide access to online courses, webinars, and articles that volunteers can engage with at their own pace. The more resources they have, the more confident they will feel. Don’t sleep on the power of mentorship. Consider pairing seasoned volunteers with newcomers. This not only helps the newbies learn the ropes but also fosters a sense of community and support within your team.
Shower Them with Love
Just like plants need water and sunlight, volunteers need to feel valued and appreciated. Take the time to write personalized thank-you notes. A heartfelt message can make someone’s day and remind them why they love serving. Celebrate your volunteers’ achievements publicly. Whether it’s a shout-out during a meeting, a highlight in the church newsletter, or a post on social media, make sure everyone knows how awesome your team is. Create fun and quirky rewards for your volunteers. How about a “Golden Glue Stick” award for the best craft organizer or a “Super Storyteller” cape for the best storyteller? It’s silly, but it shows you care. The point is— a little appreciation goes a long way.
Keeping the Lines Open
Effective communication is the glue that holds everything together (and no, we’re not talking about the glue sticks again). Keep your team in the loop with regular updates. Whether it’s via email, a group chat, or a carrier pigeon, make sure everyone knows what’s happening and what’s expected of them. Encourage volunteers to come to you with any questions, concerns, or brilliant ideas. An open-door policy fosters trust and ensures that small issues don’t turn into big problems. Even more, create opportunities for volunteers to give feedback. This not only helps you improve the ministry but also makes volunteers feel heard and valued.
Keeping the Flame Alive
Even the most dedicated volunteers can burn out if they’re not careful. It’s your job to keep the flame burning brightly without turning it into a wildfire. Encourage volunteers to take breaks and not overcommit. Remind them that it’s okay to say no sometimes. Foster a supportive environment where volunteers can lean on each other. Encourage team bonding activities and create a buddy system for added support. Plan regular social events just for fun. Whether it’s a potluck dinner, a game night, or a trip to the bowling alley, make sure your team has opportunities to relax and enjoy each other’s company outside of ministry duties.
Leading a children’s ministry team is no small feat, but with heart, humor, and a few strategic moves, you can inspire your volunteers to serve with excellence. By cultivating their strengths, offering training and development, creating a culture of appreciation, maintaining clear communication, and avoiding burnout, you’ll create a thriving, joyful ministry that impacts the lives of children and volunteers alike.
Rooting for you!
Esther