First Presbyterian Church: Drawing on the Gifts of God's People

First Presbyterian Church: Drawing on the Gifts of God's People

First Presybterian Church of Mt. Holly has created an effective system for developing human resources for its extensive community ministry. In its welcome letter to first-time visitors, First Presbyterian underscores its commitment to holistic mission:

Another element of our shared life together as a congregation is our work together for the cause of Christ. Besides our concern to share faith in Christ with our neighbors, we're very active in trying to meet some of the social concerns of the needy and hurting in our community. ... We invite everyone to find a place where they can find fulfillment through serving.

The church backs up this invitation with an impressive system for matching members with ministries, starting with the new member's Discovery Class, which dedicates several weeks to spiritual gift discernment. Interviews with new members probe what skills, experiences, and interests they bring to service. Periodic workshops on "Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts" also help to keep the topic before the congregation. The Director of Servant Development (a great title!) maintains a data base of this information along with each member's service record with the church, so that as volunteer opportunities arise, they can recruit members according to their experience, spiritual gifts, and interests. The database is updated through an annual "Time and Talent Survey."

A brochure lists the names of staff in the service development ministry: "The following people have been charged by Session [church board] to help you reach out to our community. They are available to equip, encourage and engage you in our ministry." The Director of Servant Development posts information about volunteer opportunities on the church's bulletin boards and in the newsletter. She also keeps the other staff informed about open volunteer positions, so that they can be on the lookout for people to recruit. She tries to stay in touch with volunteers, not waiting for them to come to her with problems. Otherwise, in her experience, "You just don't know if they are struggling or hating the job they are doing, until all of a sudden somebody quits." Her job also includes being an "all-around encourager of those who are volunteering."

First Presbyterian leaves members no room to doubt that they are a valuable resource to the church and to the Kingdom. They also leave members no excuse for not participating!