Many churches have problems recruiting. We might be quick to fault people’s busy lives or lack of spiritual maturity, but is it always their fault? Perhaps we should put ourselves in each other’s shoes. Both ministry leaders trying to recruit and the people they seek to recruit can experience recruitment blues. The recruitment problem may go both ways. We need to understand each other’s perspective.
Put Yourself in Each Other’s Shoes
Imagine being a ministry leader who can’t get enough people to serve. They feel a weight of responsibility for effective ministry but can’t do it without enough volunteers. What are they to do? Do they discontinue programs, combine classes, etc.? How do they accomplish other responsibilities when they must put so much effort into recruiting? Should they resort to begging or bribing people to serve? Imagine their frustration. — How quick would you be to get discouraged when you can’t get enough people to volunteer?
Now imagine being a church attender constantly sought after in recruitment efforts. They may feel manipulated, guilted, or coerced into serving. Perhaps they don’t feel their time, needs, and interests matter. Imagine their frustration. — How quick would you be to get discouraged about the value of serving due such recruitment efforts?
Some Reminders When it Comes to Recruitment Blues
Roleplaying to see how each side feels, leads to heart reminders we all need.
Ministry Leaders: The way you approach recruitment affects people’s opinions about serving and the effectiveness of recruiting. Be careful to approach recruitment with integrity and with high regard for people. — “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. – Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.” (Prov. 4:23, 26)
Read: Motivating People to Serve
Church Attenders: Serving is God’s idea. Your first concern should be loving and glorifying Him, regardless of how your church handles recruitment. Make it about the Lord. Anything done in His name is worthwhile! — “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” (Rom. 12:11)
Read: Reasons for Serving
For help getting beyond recruitment blues, check out the Staffing Ministry Manual. Therein you’ll find help with recruiting and much more to help you get the right people into the right ministry at the right time.