SERVICE

<<PREVIOUS GIFT>>     <<NEXT GIFT>>

Service—This gift equips one to do practical jobs that others may deem to be tedious or beneath them, but that actually very much need to be done. This gift is to be distinguished from helping by its focus on tasks, whereas helping is more focused on lending assistance to a person. An example of leading through service is cleaning the church building, sharpening pencils for the pews, or folding bulletins (Jn. 13:3-5).
​
Individuals gifted in service are invaluable to the day-to-day operations and practical functions of the church. They often work behind the scenes, ensuring that the physical and logistical needs of the church are met. Here are some ways they can serve in church ministries:

1. Facility Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain church facilities, performing minor repairs and coordinating larger maintenance tasks with professionals.
2. Church Cleaning Coordinator: Organize teams for cleaning the church building, including the sanctuary, restrooms, and classrooms.
3. Hospitality Service: Set up and clean up for church events, including Sunday services, weddings, funerals, and other gatherings.
4. Transportation Ministry: Provide transportation for members who are unable to drive themselves to church services or events.
5. Communion Preparation: Prepare the elements for communion services and clean up afterward.
6. Resource Management: Manage church supplies, ensuring that items like office supplies, kitchen supplies, and toiletries are stocked and organized.
7. Landscaping and Gardening: Care for the church’s outdoor spaces, including gardening, mowing, and snow removal.
8. Technical Support: Assist with the audio-visual needs of the church, setting up equipment for services and events.
9. Food Prep Team: Prepare meals for church events, potlucks, or to support families during times of need.
10. Church Office Assistance: Help with clerical duties in the church office, such as answering phones, copying, and data entry.
11. Inventory Specialist: Keep track of church inventory, especially for items used in worship services, children's ministry, or outreach events.
12. Bulletin Assembly: Gather and fold church bulletins, newsletters, or other communication materials.
13. Event Setup and Takedown: Arrange chairs, tables, and other necessities for church events, and restore the space afterward.
14. Security Team Member: Be part of a team that ensures the safety of the congregation during services and events.
15. Outreach Logistics Support: Help organize and pack materials for outreach events or mission trips.
16. Nursery Support: Prepare and maintain the nursery area, ensuring it is clean, safe, and welcoming for families with young children.
17. Parking Lot Attendant: Assist with parking during high-attendance events and help with the flow of traffic.
18. Disaster Response Helper: Be available to assist in clean-up and repair efforts if the church or its members are affected by a natural disaster.
19. Decoration Team: Help decorate the church for various liturgical seasons or special events.
20. Literature Distribution: Manage the distribution of literature, like brochures and pamphlets, ensuring they are readily available for visitors and members.

By performing these tasks, individuals with the gift of service demonstrate the love of Christ through their diligent work, often without fanfare or recognition, reflecting Jesus’ model of servant leadership and nurturing the body of Christ in practical and essential ways.