Ministry Programs From Our Pastors Gerald and LaVerne Reliford For many years, the church layperson had the attitude of, Let those who are trained do the work of ministering and he/she came to church only on Sunday mornings to get a weekly "fill-up." As we come to God's Word, however, this reasoning does not hold up under the light of the gospel. In writing to the "saints and faithful ones in Christ Jesus" in the Book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul sets forth the type of people that have been given to the Body as gifts - the apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. The goal of the pastor is to equip the saints for a specific purpose. This purpose is the "work of the ministry" or "work of ministering." It was never our heavenly Father's intent to have only certain ones in the body of Christ do all the work. In fact, we find in First Corinthians 12 that, just as in our physical body, every member has a vital role to play. Much more in the Body of Christ every member is a necessary part to a smooth functioning organism. Equipping the Saints for Service October 2011 Ephesians 4:11-12 (NIV) Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. The pastor-teacher must be a trainer and example to their people through teaching the Word and personal discipleship. Then, as the various ministries are established, leaders are established, also. Being confident with this leadership, the pastor can move on to spearhead the other needed ministries, still having time to do those pastoral functions and study God's Word. As your pastors-teachers, we are constantly looking at how we can involve the members to do these very things. We have had the privilege to see others picking up in areas that need special attention, but that are often overlooked because they are considered of lesser importance by some. God simply needs saints who are available and willing. Be assured that when you desire to be used, He will give you a "work of ministry" that will bring glory and honor to His name! "And whatsoever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord you shall receive the reward of the inheritance, for you serve the Lord Christ." (Col. 3:23, 24)
Page 3 Page 4 Table of Contents Page EDUCATION Our purpose is to see children develop their own personal relationship with God that will last for years to come. We promote worship and educate them about the love of God through practical lessons, games, crafts, and singing. The Youth Ministry builds strong personal relationships with God and with each other in a safe, Godly environment. We focus on training young people to use Christianity in every area of their life so that they can, in turn, share with others at school, with their families, or around the community. Nursery 5 Preschool 6 Primary 7 Elementary (Grades 4-6) 8 Youth (Grades 7-12) 9 Children s Church (combined ages) 10 BODY & SOUL The purpose of the Body and Soul ministry is to embrace the stewardship or care of our physical place of worship as well as our spiritual relationship with God. Providing a safe, secure place of worship for our congregation helps to foster an intimate relationship with God through prayer. The bookstore/gift shop is a nonprofit outreach center, extending the mission and ministry of the church. Proceeds from sales help support the church's ministries. Prayer Force 11 Maintenance 12 Housekeeping 13 Bookstore 14 OUTREACH At NLFTN, we are committed to reaching others for Christ. Whether it is encouraging another member of the church or reaching out to someone in the community outside of our congregation, our purpose is to extend ourselves to those who are in need. Woman to Woman 15 Man to Man 16 Nursing Home Visitation 17 Senior Citizens (over 70) 18 Small Groups 19 Table of Contents Page FELLOWSHIP & BENEVOLENCE Fellowship and benevolence ministries build relationships both within and outside our church. To be in fellowship with those different than ourselves will require us to stay in fellowship with God. Our benevolence ministry is designed to help our church people with the basic necessities of life and to serve those in need with material items and/or service, so they may be connected to Christ and grow in full devotion to Him. The greatest act of benevolence will go beyond physical assistance to a compassionate investment and commitment of time, energy, and love. Hospitality 20 Special Event Planning 21 Family Activities 22 Children s Camps 23 PRAISE & WORSHIP The purpose of our worship is to celebrate the Good News of our Risen Savior that will ignite lives at NLFTN for service and outreach to those within our fellowship and outward to the community and the world. Music is the heartbeat of praise and worship at NLFTN. Our mission is to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ through music and song, and to create an atmosphere of worship where hearts can be touched and lives can be changed. It is our purpose to entertain the presence of God in every service. Usher 24 Greeters 25 Praise and Worship Team (Music) 26 Audio & Media 27 Communion 28 THE 1% SERVICE COMMITMENT The key to long term success for our church ministries is for each person involved to find the right amount of time within their life that they can commit to service. The cumulative effect of contributing 1% of your time to God s work will amount to a tremendous increase in ministries the church can provide both within our church family and for community outreach programs. One hour service commitment per week 29 OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES God is the source of the gifts and graces that equip us to fulfill his call. Your call to service will take advantage of your strengths an important indication of God s will for you. Your Call to Service 30
Page 5 Page 6 Education Education Position Title: Nursery Leader To provide a safe and caring environment for children, ensure that children's church times are happy times, provide a foundation for their developing faith; and help babies and toddlers develop social and play skills. To allow parents to feel secure about their child s well being while attending services and activities at NLFTN. Tend to all needs of children ages 0 2 years. Get children ready for preschool. Locate parents for assistance if unable to soothe child after 30 minutes. Provide loving learning environment and promote appropriate behavior for church setting. Time Required: 1-2 hours weekly to maintain nursery and each Sunday during worship time. Training Provided: Observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Must love little children and be able to minister to their needs. Listen well to parents about special needs such as allergies. Be spiritually mature and dependable, and consider every detail important. And Jesus took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me. (Mark 9:36-37) When you welcome a child in the name of Jesus you welcome Jesus himself. When we minister to children God is with us. Position Title: Preschool Teacher To show and teach young children about God and his love. Instruct children ages 3-5 years. Prepare lesson, craft, snack, and structured playtime. Provide loving learning environment and promote appropriate behavior for church setting. Time Required: 1 hour each Sunday during worship time. 1 hour preparation time each week planning for class room time. Training Provided: Observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Familiarity with the Bible and God s teachings; Love for both God and children; and Exceptional patience and understanding. Bonding with Children, getting to watch them grow physically as well as spiritually. Lots of fun!! Planting a see in a young life and knowing what you do can make a difference. You may be the only God they see. Related positions: Teacher Assistants, Substitute Teacher Related positions: Nursery Assistants
Page 7 Page 8 Education Education Position Title: Primary Teacher (Grades 1-3) To show and teach young children about God and his love. To start early Christian instruction with children on how to have a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ. Instruct children ages 6-8 years. Prepare lesson, craft, snack, and structured playtime. Provide loving learning environment and promote appropriate behavior for church setting. Ensure child is turned over to appropriate adult when Sunday worship is over. Time Required: 1 hour each Sunday during worship time. 1 hour preparation time each week planning for class room time. Training Provided: Observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Familiarity with the Bible and God s teachings; Love for both God and children; and Exceptional patience and understanding. Be excited about teaching children about God and God s word. Letting each child know how special they are to God. Watching a child begin applying God s teachings in their life. Related positions: Teacher Assistants, Substitute Teacher Position Title: Elementary Teacher (Grades 4-6) Teach our children: To understand the Bible and about Salvation. To live in this world and abide by God commandments. To pray for themselves and others. To know God s promises to us. Instruct children ages 9-12 years. Prepare structured bible lesson that contains practical applications that apply to everyday life and suits the maturity level of the students. Lessons may include reading the bible, discussing bible stories, learning scriptures, and completing work sheets. Set-up classroom for planned activities. Time Required: 1 hour each Sunday during worship time and until appropriate adult retrieves child. 2 hour preparation time each week planning for class room time Training Provided: Observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Familiarity with the Bible and God s teachings; Love for both God and children - Be a role model; Exceptional patience and understanding Gain trust and respect of children; and Good listening skills Know when child is ready to receive salvation. Love, laughter, and hugs from the children. Children opening up to you and praying for and with you. Seeing a child s face light up when they understand the teachings and can share them with others. The continued respect and appreciation you receive after child graduates into next class and even into adulthood. Related positions: Teacher Assistants, Substitute Teacher
Page 9 Page 10 Education Education Position Title: Youth Pastors/Ministers The primary purpose of the Youth Minister is to introduce young people to Christ; to disciple them in spiritual growth; to train them in serving Christ with their life. Provide oversight of junior and senior high youth. Develop lesson plans which guide students from ages 12-18 yrs to learn about Jesus and the moral precepts of God s Word. Plan programs and activities at the church and at different locations which are both enjoyable and spiritually enlightening for the students. Responsible to: Senior Pastors Time Required: 2-3 hours weekly for meeting and preparation time; additional time required for youth trips. Length of commitment: 6 month minimum; renewable for as long as the calling remains until God leads in a different direction. Training Provided: Observation of current teaching methods and classes. Self study of God s Word. Seeking out and participating in opportunities to increase knowledge concerning the needs of our young people. Must be a born again believer with a maturing relationship with Christ. Must show a faithful pursuit of leadership characteristics as listed in 1Timothy 3. Must demonstrate a genuine love and maintain a good rapport with young people. Must be sensitive to needs and pressures of teens with knowledge of possible solutions. The joy set before them of seeing young people grow in the beauty of God s will for their lives. Related positions: Teacher Assistants, Substitute Teacher Position Title: Children s Church Teacher (combined services for all children & youth) Our goal is that all children would know and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior by the time they graduate from our children s ministry. We also want all children to become students of God s Word and grow in their faith. Children s ministry is an important ministry in the church because tomorrow s church leaders are in our children s ministry today. We want to team with parents and raise spiritual champions! By teaching God s Word in exciting and relevant ways, we believe that God will do a mighty work in the lives of His children. To plan weekly programs available to our children in their spiritual development To prepare Wednesday night activities that promote Bible learning and spiritual application as we encourage kids to grow close to God Time Required: 1 1/2 hour each Wednesday during worship time. 1-2 hours preparation time each week planning for class room time. Training Provided: Observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Familiarity with the Bible and God s teachings; Love for both God and children; and Exceptional patience and understanding. A great time to get plugged into the growth and development of the children in our church. Related positions: Teacher Assistants, Substitute Teacher
Page 11 Page 12 Body & Soul Body & Soul Position Title: Prayer Force (Individual Member) To communicate to God the needs and desires requests that are received by prayer force member or the church. Seek to obtain answers to prayer on behalf of the church and the individuals in need who make requests on behalf of themselves or others. Cry out to God. Call on his name. Intercede through prayer whenever and wherever desired. Time Required: Determined by the leading of the Spirit of God. Training Provided: God will lead you through his Spirit; other prayer force members will help lead or give advice as needed. Desire to seek God and grow closer to him. Great compassion and understanding for others. Good listening and speaking skills. You will begin to hear God s voice because He will speak when you call on his name. Position Title: Maintenance Oversight To keep church facilities in good state of repair and orderliness by overseeing day-to-day and long-term maintenance and operation. To advise pastors and church leaders of both preventative and corrective major maintenance that is required. To prioritize maintenance tasks that can be accomplished by both skilled and unskilled volunteers. Be aware of needs for repair, replacing, or maintaining all areas of church facilities and property. Time Required: As needed, flexible based on requirements of task Length of commitment: open ended at volunteer s discretion; minimum of 6 months desired Training Provided: On the job; assistance from pastor General knowledge of maintenance and construction skills Experience in do-it-yourself repair Blessing for the entire church body Sense of pride and involvement
Page 13 Page 14 Body & Soul Body & Soul Position Title: Housekeeping Manager To help provide a clean and orderly place of worship and fellowship for our congregation from children to adults To instill a pride of church ownership that encourages spiritual growth through Bible studies and hearing and receiving God s word. Oversee the cleaning and upkeep of inside the church building. Encourage and organize volunteers to assist with vacuuming, dusting, and cleaning the sanctuary, classrooms, bathrooms, etc., on a weekly basis Time Required: 2-3 hours per week Planning time to schedule volunteers and ensure cleaning supplies are available Length of commitment: minimum 6 months desired; renewable to 1 year Training Provided: Overview of cleaning requirements provided by Pastors; on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Desire to honor God by keeping His house clean and holy. Cleaning God's house is very meditative. To vacuum right at the spot where the sacrifice takes place is humbling. Vacuuming the sanctuary will remind you of how people go in there to be 'cleansed' of their transgressions, and their hearts made spotless once more. Cleaning the classrooms you will feel the joy of the children as they learn a new bible story, bible verse, or song of praise. Position Title: Bookstore Attendant To provide a convenient opportunity for the church congregation to purchase Christian gifts and resources Open bookstore and be available to sell items before and after church services Inventory and maintain store merchandize Report to Pastors on established basis regarding sales and profit. ; Barbara Burton & Denise Adamson Time Required: 1-1 1/2 hours per week; respond to special requests as needed Training Provided: Use of cash register, any other inventory controls necessary Dependability, friendliness, and honesty Helping people find the right gift for a special occasion; Another opportunity to serve in the church. Related Positions: Bookstore volunteers Related Positions: Housekeeping Volunteers
Page 15 Page 16 Outreach Outreach Position Title: Woman to Woman To provide programs & resources to connect the women of the church with each other. We are connected to pray for one another, keeping our eyes open and keeping each other s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drop out. Lead women in prayer Coordinate outreach programs for the women of the church Lead small group study of the scriptures Coordinate guest speakers Responsible to: Pastor LaVerne Time Required: 2-4 hours once a month Length of commitment: minimum 1year; with renewable as desired Training Provided: Instruction and conference with Pastors; mentor assigned as needed; bible study and prayer. Loving and caring spirit Desire to connect with other women believers Desire to help others in their journey Build stronger relationships with the women of the church Share individual gifts Meet new people and make new friends Develop a stronger relationship with God Position Title: Man to Man To develop strong men of God and to bring men of all walks of life together to share friendship and spiritual growth so they may help to transform their families, church, and community. To provide men with resources to develop Godly character and to equip them to influence their families and communities for the cause of Christ. Lead men in bible study and prayer Coordinate projects and activities for the men of the church Responsible to: Pastor Jerry Time Required: 2-4 hours once a month Length of commitment: minimum 1year; with renewable as desired Training Provided: Instruction and conference with Pastors; mentor assigned as needed; bible study and prayer. Good listening skills and compassionate spirit Desire to connect with other men of Christ Desire to help others in their journey Build stronger relationships with the men of the church Foster team spirit in working together to complete church projects0 Meet new people and make new friends Develop a stronger relationship with God
Page 17 Page 18 Outreach Outreach Position Title: Nursing Home Visitation To foster commitment to reaching others for Christ. To initiate awareness of need first within church family and then reaching out to others. Plan visits to family members of NLFTN Provide outreach to others as desires ministry services if permitted. Reach out during holidays and special memorials (.i.e., Christmas caroling, Christian music, children s programs) Time Required: Plan for bi-weekly visits or based on personal schedule or special requests Length of commitment: as long as one as the passion to do so Training Provided: Mentoring with Pastors Love of the elderly Understanding of the needs of those physically, mentally, or transportation impaired Compassion, patience, and understanding for all Personal satisfaction of reaching out with God s love to those in need. Position Title: Senior Citizens Activities Director To reach out to others in Christ To recognize and be sensitive to the special needs that the elderly have Bring together senor citizens of the church through monthly activities, meals, trips, cards, & phone calls. To give our elder members the respect and attention they deserve. To recognize special needs of the elderly. Time Required: 1 2 hours; varies based on number of phone calls, cards, and contacts per week Length of commitment: Personal commitment Training Provided: Mentoring with Pastors Simple love of people Desire to reach out to the special needs of elderly Seeing the joy in people brought together Providing fellowship to those who are lonely and need special attention.
Page 19 Page 20 Outreach Fellowship Position Title: Small Groups Director To build a network of support and fellowship among members of the church body To train the body in the teachings of God To reach out to the unchurched individual and bring them into the fold. Determine the subjects to be covered. Create a workable format to be used by the group Leader. Find hosts to be willing to use their home as a meeting place. Secure competent Leaders to facilitate the meetings and direct the discussions. Responsible to: Pastor Time Required: approximately 6 hours per week Length of commitment: open ended Training Provided: By Pastor and through observation of other small groups Knowing people and having personal contacts Good communication skills Ability to teach and facilitate bible study discussions Increasing awareness of the body and a sense of belonging Position Title: Hospitality Coordinator To provide assistance to Pastors in supporting major events/activities which promote spiritual growth and fellowship To help foster closer connections to each other and God Oversee planning of food/decorations for events Coordinate and support people with meals who are recovering from physical aliment Works with Event Planner and Family Activities Coordinator with activities for the church Assist Pastor LaVerne in sending cards and mail and keeping hospitality room ready for use. Responsible to: Pastor Lavern Time Required: Will vary depending on events Length of commitment: Desire 1 year commitment or as long as there is passion to serve Training Provided: One on-one training with Pastor LaVerne and as needed skill training. Enjoys planning meals for guests Enjoys cooking Enjoys decorating/coordinating events Good communication skills for recruiting volunteers to help Bonding with people who help Sense of love for those who are encouraged by having a good meal or receiving a card or mail.
Page 21 Page 22 Fellowship Fellowship Position Title: Special Event Planner To work with Pastors and other ministry leaders in planning special events that will build up the church body spiritually and be an outreach to the community. To assist in identifying and coordinating the tasks for conducting a successful church event. Assist and oversee planning of main events of the church such as annual conferences, camp meetings, or any other special event. Coordinate and work with Hospitality Coordinator to plan food, publicize event, as well a to develop & print resource and promotional materials (brochures, flyers, etc). Maintain monthly, Time Required: Varies according to magnitude and duration of event. Training Provided: Observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Good communication skills Love of planning and organizing Opportunity to meet new people. Able to see volunteers open up and see God move in people s lives as they participate. Knowing you are working with God s anointed to bring people together to grow. Position Title: Family Activity Coordinator To establish fellowship between church members To create a bond with together centered around family activities and the Lord Plan quarterly special church family activities such as movie nights, picnics, or special family fun events. Time Required: Varies based on activity Training Provided: Help from pastors and other volunteers, observation, and as needed skill training. Love to promote activities that involve all ages Can work well with other leaders Good communication skills Writing and computer skills a plus Seeing families getting to know each other and drawing closer together Reaching out to friends in the community
Page 23 Page 24 Fellowship Praise & Worship Position Title: Children s Camp Coordinators To build fellowship for the children and encourage individual spiritual growth Plan for all aspects of multi-day Kids Camp once a year Review materials for purchase or reproduction Plan menus and purchase of food Recruit church volunteers to oversee needs of camp Time Required: Annual during school break; Planning time spread over several weeks; actual camp may be 2-3 days plus an overnight Length of commitment: minimum 1 planning cycle renewable as desired Training Provided: Work with Pastor LaVerne; observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Love of children Exception planning skills to make the camp experience life enriching for our children Ability to work with other leaders and volunteers Seeing the spiritual growth of children as they attend camp; and Sharing in their development of wonderful memories of God s love for them Position Title: Usher The purpose and function of the Ushers Ministry is to meet and seat the church body with a loving smile, as they enter the sanctuary. The Usher s Ministry is an extension of God s hands to people. The Ministry of Ushering is a personal representation of Jesus Christ who meets people on a person-to-person basis when they first arrive at NLFTN Church. Ushers serve as watchmen, servants, disciplinarians and hosts of NLFTN. Take care of the sanctuary and make sure it is ready for services Position offering plates in front of sanctuary Make offering envelopes are available as members enter Ensure outside entry and walk ways are clean and safe Collect offering plates and count the offering Ensure order in the sanctuary Time Required: 2 ½ hours per week; Sunday morning arrival is no later than 9: a.m. Training Provided: Lead Usher provides training to new ushers for 4 Sundays; observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Have a passion and respect for God Be able to stand for a prolonged period Be knowledgeable of church body Good interpersonal skills and ability to think on your feet and respond You will get to meet and greet all the church members plus new individuals and families. Related Positions: Assistant Ushers
. Page 25 Page 26 Praise & Worship Praise & Worship Position Title: Greeters To attract people to the love of Christ through friendship & fellowship Welcome both regular church body and visitors to worship services Direct traffic. Inform visitors about church resources and direct them to the correct locations Pass out church bulletins and other literature as required Time Required: 45 minutes on Sunday mornings. Training Provided: Observation and on-the-job for two Sundays with veteran greeters, and as needed skill training. The ministry of greeting is perhaps one of the most crucial in the church because it is one of the most visible. Greeters: Must have a kind, loving, and caring spirit Must be able to smile and warmly welcome all who come in the door at NLFTN Must have knowledge of church services and facilities The joy of serving! Meet new people as well as all who attend services. Learn who the body of Christ is at NLFTN. Position Title: Praise & Worship Leader & Team To help undergird pastor for services leading people into the presence of God through worship and praise; celebrating the presence of God. Lead worship/music for all services. Practice weekly 1 ½ with praise team. Determine new songs to learn and song program to be done for each service. Encourage volunteers to join as singers and musicians. Responsible to: Pastor Jerry Time Required: 6 hours weekly Length of commitment: As long as anointing & passion are present. Training Provided: Practice weekly with team. Singing and/or instrument playing ability Understanding of the concepts of worship Familiarity with harmony Ability to lead and coordinate singers and musicians Personally experience the presence of God and the joy of seeing others grow spiritually through the music presented. Enjoy seeing and hearing others using and developing their musical talents.
Page 27 Page 28 Praise & Worship Praise & Worship Position Title: Audio & Media Leader To provide the best sound quality and recording for church services in the sanctuary and on Internet live streaming To balance singers and music production for an uplifting praise and worship service Oversee sound booth personnel and assist them in learning how to provide support and enrichment to the listening and participation experience in the praise and worship service Responsible to: Pastor Time Required: 30 minutes before each service and during the service Training Provided: On the job training with Pastor oversight; individual instruction sessions as needed. Able to follow instructions Need an ear for sound and music Ability to stay focused and on task Computer skills a plus Contribution to praise and worship Part of team effort in creating the praise and worship experience for the church body Position Title: Communion Preparer Prepare communion for church body for distribute Ensure juice, wafers, and supplies are available for Communion Sunday Prepare communion trays for the church body Clean and store communion supplies after service Time Required: 1-2 hours monthly Training Provided: Observation, on-the-job, and as needed skill training. Understanding of communion process and procedures Ability to maintain reverence and decorum Attention to detail Spiritual growth Be part of the worship service that remembers Christ s sacrifice Related Positions: Audio and media team members
Page 29 Page 30 1% Commitment Other Position Title: 1% Weekly Commitment for Church Service 1. To establish a volunteer workforce to accomplish tasks in the specific ministry group goals for each area of our church life where service contributions are needed; 2. To complete short term manageable tasks that could be accomplished by anyone with the time and talents. A list of various tasks of approximately one (1) hour in duration has been identified by each church ministry group. If completed, these tasks that would provide support to improve the quality of that ministry. Responsible to: Depending on the task, individual who may 1% commitment may be responsible directly to pastors, ministry group coordinators, or current position leader. When task assignment is made, coordination responsibilities will be identified. Time Required: Approximately one hour in duration for each task. Length of commitment: 1 hour per week for one year. Training Provided: Specific directions will accompany each task. For tasks that require additional directions or training, on the job training, shadowing, or mentoring will be accomplished by ministry group leaders. In addition to the time commitment, most 1% commitment tasks will require everyday life skills and abilities including following directions and completing the task. Position Title: Your Call to Service To let church body identify talents and gifts that they have and are willing to use for the Lord s service Could be any talent or gift Time Required: Will depend on desire and passion of individual Length of commitment: variable Training Provided: Self teaching or personal experience and growth Based on individual gift or talent Serving others in ministry areas that best fit your gifts, skills, and passion brings great joy and satisfaction. Your involvement creates personal spiritual growth and gives you a new found purpose in the church. For those who make the 1% commitment, you will see yourself as far more than just a volunteer ; you become a member in ministry fulfilling God s plan for your life. Serving increases your relationship and growth in the Lord. Serving others in ministry areas that best fit your gifts, skills, and passion brings great joy and satisfaction. Your involvement creates personal spiritual growth and gives you a new found purpose in the church. For those who make the 1% commitment, you will see yourself as far more than just a volunteer ; you become a member in ministry fulfilling God s plan for your life. Serving increases your relationship and growth in the Lord.