Ongoing Training

If church leaders are serious about preparing believers for ministry, they must also provide ongoing training that encourages development in the life of the believer and his ministry.

Skill Development

There is always a need to improve skills for effective ministry. Without ongoing training, workers may have no opportunity to grow.

Spiritual Development

Ministry is — always has been and always should be — first and foremost a spiritual endeavor. Too often those serving in ministry are so busy investing in others that they neglect their own spiritual needs.

Problem Solving/Conflict Resolution

When people work together, they will inevitably face problems and disagreements. In-service training gives workers the opportunity to air their concerns and gives leadership the opportunity to solve them. Unresolved problems and disagreements fester and present an ongoing impediment to ministry.

Communication, Feedback, And Affirmation

In-service training will effectively keep workers informed, hear their concerns and suggestions, and will express appreciation and give recognition for significant achievements.

Planning

Ministry failure and frustration are not always caused by a lack of skill, dedication, or diligence. They can result from poor planning and communication. Regular and consistent in-service training can help overcome these barriers to effective ministry.

Accountability

Training gives leadership an opportunity to reinforce ministry expectations, motivate workers, provide resources, and hold workers accountable for their performance.

Quality In-Service Training Has Other Important Characteristics

1. Training needs to be required for all workers.

2. Training must be focused on age and ministry.

3. Training must be frequent (monthly or quarterly).

4. Training must be a consistent part of life and ministry.

5. Training must be done on a convenient schedule. For instance, train Sunday staff during the midweek service and the midweek staff during Sunday School.

6. Training can be supplemented with video or audio resources and participation in district or other training events, but should not be replaced by them.

7. Training must include recognition and rewards for those who faithfully participate.

Rob Burkhart is director of adult and children’s ministries, Michigan District Assemblies of God. He is author of Awakening the Sleeping Giant: Maximizing Your Sunday School.