by Debra Frank

Created on: February 23, 2009

If you are seeking work with monetary reward in a church setting, this may require an investment in time and education, but getting involved in church work on a volunteer basis is usually quite easy. There is always something to be done and the possibilities are endless. Let us explore what it means to be a member of a Christian church and what "work" may be available.

It is important to belong to an organized church because as a Christian, not only do we need the fellowship of other Christians and the opportunity to learn and grow in our faith, but we need to publicly worship and adore our God! Being a member of a church, even if your congregation does not require it, means tithing your resources of assets, time, and talent. We tithe not to receive any reward, recognition, or favor. We do it to express our adoration of our God and to express the joy and our thankfulness for His amazing gifts to us which allow our eternal life.

What needs to be done? Everything! As I said before the possibilities are endless. What skills has God blessed you with? See if you cannot match yourself up with a good fit. Your church may even have organized service groups that you can join. Are you a good driver? Maybe part of your tithe is picking up a member that needs transportation. See how simple it can be?

Common Areas of Volunteer Opportunities

1. Worship

Sing in the Choir. Play an instrument. Usher. Assist church leader in service. Assist in the Mother's area. Pass out bulletins. Greet members and visitors.

2. Education

Lead a Bible study. Host a Bible study. Assist with Sunday school or Christian day school. Provide supplies or treats for Bible study.

3. Facility and operations

Join the management board. Set-up items needed for services. Help decorate for Holidays. Do simple repairs. Assist with office duties.

4. Service to congregation.

Transport members for services and events. Help church members that have need or are experiencing tough times. Assist with meals for special events such as baptisms, funerals, or weddings. Teach life skills to younger members. Organize support or service groups. Visit members in nursing homes. Send members get well cards or well wishes for special occasions, or sympathy cards

5. Service to others

Help or start a food bank. Start or participate in an Acts 1:8 Ministries or similar service group. Create your witness statement and share it with others.

6. Spiritual Support

Organize or participate in a prayer chain. Pray daily for the church, church members, and church leaders.

Getting started

Contact your church leaders or your church office to see what opportunities are available. Do not be discouraged if they do not have ideas for you to get involved. Often they are just too busy to organize a list of needs and/or members have not shared their needs. You may need to come up with your own service ideas.

For example, maybe you've decided the earlier example of transporting someone to church on Sundays is a good idea, but the church leaders are not aware of anyone needing help. Advertise in the church bulletin! You can keep searching for other ways to help.

Do not be put off if your congregation requires proof of license or even requires a background check. It may be a legal requirement or deemed a moral requirement in this sinful world.

The hectic pace of life may keep you from tithing more than 10% of your free time to your church, and your tithe may only come to a few minutes a day. Do not be discouraged as prayer chains, note writing, or telephoning are all within the realm of possibilities.

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