An equipping church builds a system for equipping people. There is no one perfect system. The best systems are designed by and for the people who will use them. But a good system will have these elements.
- Educational opportunities, for new members and long time members, that teach:
- The Biblical foundations for ministry
- The role of ministry/service in a Christian’s life
- Discovering your gifts
- Connecting people to ministry: interviews, placement and follow-up
- Helpful job descriptions for all positions easily available
- Intentional invitations to consider specific ministry opportunities, without pressure or guilt! (aka recruiting the right way)
- Training for people as they start a ministry; training to help them grow in a ministry; training in preparation for increased responsibility in ministry; training for leaders
- Record-keeping systems that make sure people don’t fall through the cracks
- Intentional, planned support for people as they serve
- Support that seeks out and solves problems early
- Plans for dealing with conflict and problems
- Regular affirmation and appreciation