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What’s Up? Most churches are desperate for volunteers, but the way we’ve been taught to recruit them is broken. Let’s talk about why your recruiting isn’t working.
So What? Recruiting volunteers like we’re selling timeshares is why our ministries are packed with burned-out, half-hearted leaders. There’s a better way.
The Point Is:
Recruiting Fills a Position, Not a Calling
The old-school recruiting model is a glorified sales pitch. You find someone, cast a grand vision of life-changing ministry, and push them toward a yes. The problem? Just because someone agrees doesn’t mean they’re called.
Enrolling Aligns Ministry with Passion
Instead of selling someone on a role, enrollment starts by asking about their spiritual goals. What do they want to grow in? What do they feel God calling them to? Then, and only then, do we connect them to a ministry that fuels their passion.
Recruiting Leads to Burnout and Frustration
When you talk someone into a ministry they aren’t truly invested in, they show up out of obligation. That leads to apathy, burnout, and, ultimately, a disappearing act. Volunteers last when they believe the ministry is helping them fulfill their spiritual purpose.
Enrolling Creates Committed, Passionate Leaders
People don’t need to be convinced to do something they already love. When volunteers serve in a ministry that aligns with their God-given calling, they don’t just fill a slot—they thrive.
And … ? We have to stop treating church ministry like a used-car lot. Enthusiastic recruiting without alignment is why churches struggle to keep volunteers. Instead, pastors and leaders need to focus on meaningful conversations that uncover what people actually want from their spiritual walk. When we align opportunities with those desires, ministries don’t just function—they flourish.
Jesus didn’t beg people to follow Him. He invited them into something bigger than themselves. When volunteers see their ministry as a step toward their spiritual goals rather than a burden to be carried, we get real commitment. That’s when we stop scrambling for help and start raising up dedicated, purpose-driven leaders.
Action!
Ditch the recruiting pitch this week. Have a one-on-one conversation with a potential volunteer. Ask them about their spiritual goals, then connect them with a ministry that helps them fulfill them. See what happens.
