I am thinking about hosting a winter retreat for my church’s volunteers. Do you think it’s worth it? — a reader Response: Is a retreat worthwhile? Jesus certainly thought so! “Then, because so many people were coming and going thatRead more…
A Question: Is a Retreat Worthwhile?
signs
signs
14 projects? Where’d they come from?!
Last week was busy and stressful. My assistant Isabel and I were preparing publicity for our 14 Big Days of Serving (BDOS) projects. A major challenge was fitting descriptions for all 14 on our one-page handout! This May 19-21 eventRead more…
Good Stuff: Conversations are Powerful
Conversations are powerful. That’s what struck me from this article from Relevant magazine, “Why Mark Zuckerberg’s Meeting with Pastors is So Significant.” Conversation changes people Conversation fosters connections, especially when we spend more time asking questions and listening than expressingRead more…
A Question: What Will a Volunteer Coordinator Do For Me?
The budget of our church’s volunteer program got a substantial bump this year. Thankfully, we are now able to hire a full-time coordinator. What are the most important parts of a volunteer program that we should shift to her, theRead more…
Good Stuff: Good Deeds and Good News
Here’s a good read that reminds us of how good deeds and Good News go hand in hand. Serving/volunteering leads to opportunities to share the good news of Jesus . . . and to the growth of His kingdom. “TowardRead more…
Service Enterprise Certification!
Rejoice with me! At St. Peter Lutheran in Arlington Heights, Illinois, we’re rejoicing in our recent Service Enterprise certification. See details here. We’re the first congregation in Illinois, and perhaps the nation, to successfully complete the year-long certification process. Although thatRead more…
Service-Enterprise
Three Little Words
I clearly remember the day I uncovered three little words with a huge impact on retaining volunteers. I was talking to a man who set up coffee and donuts every Sunday. He was new to that ministry, so I asked,Read more…
Scheduling Volunteers
We’re all jugglers when it comes to our calendars. On top of our regular work/school hours, there are the soccer tournaments, band recitals, business trips, family get-togethers, and weekend getaways. One result: many volunteer no-show’s at church because “something cameRead more…
calendar
calendar
Invite Seniors to Serve
Picture the seniors who volunteer at church. Do you first picture the sweet grandmothers who stuff inserts in the bulletin? They are wonderful, valuable volunteers. But also picture: The “elder statesmen/women” who serve in leadership and influence roles Retirees whoseRead more…