Some things never go out of style. That is true for any office. In my last blog I focused on how we as ministry assistants need to move on to stay current with the world around us. That is VERY true, yet we cannot lose sight of the every-day details. There's so much for us in the basics that we cannot live or serve without. Having a mind wrapped around these basics will give us what we need to make the changes necessary to reach all generations for Christ.
There's so much to take in from the basics that I've decided to break this post up into multiple days under the topics What We're Trained For & What Every Ministry Assistant Should Know. This isn’t exhaustive and I've definitely got a lot to learn. There's no doubt that I’ll think of something else vital to my workload tomorrow! As you read this...remember the only perfect person is JESUS. Not you or me.
Basics - Day One
What we're usually trained for...
There's a variety of key task that we really just need to “KNOW”. Having this information under wraps prepares us up for the big tasks that tax us physically, emotionally and spiritually. There are some things we just need to know in our sleep…so we can take on the larger projects.
Know Your Data. While the leaders are out ministering personally, you are keeping them in touch with what is happening for the church as a whole. Statistics reveal growth, decline, spiritual maturity, and the all-important contact information of your people. You will be called upon for this info without notice. Keep your info as current as possible, so you can dig it out at a moment’s notice. If your time is needed elsewhere, responsible volunteers are a great resource for entering data. I'm still working on this one. Data-entry makes me yawn.
Know Your Calendar. I personally believe that having one calendar is best. That's a rare concept and you may never see that become a reality. So, update your calendar EVERY day. Look at it regularly. Think about all of the ministries involved and keep tabs with those that schedule events. If you notice a Tweet or Facebook of an event that's not on the calendar...get it there! It will save a nightmare of double-booking the church or your Pastor.
Know Your Printer. This is funny, isn't it? It will be your best friend at the shortest of notice. Know the kinks that make it work when you need it to, because EVERYONE in the church will need to make a copy someday. And they will ask YOU how to do it. It's not a bad I idea to keep in regular contact with your printer guy, too. After the printer is serviced, always point him toward the candy dish.
Oh, and don't forget...the printer only goes out of service on the days that you need to print the prayer list, worship guide or deacon reports.
When it comes to publications or promotions, it’s important to Know Your Pastor’s Style. Does it drive him crazy to see announcements centered? Or does the sight of ten different fonts make him dizzy? Or, what about those abbreviations tucked in here and there without explanation? Does a church member really know the acrostic for your ministry event without explanation? Listen to corrections or comments made after the Pastor reads your draft. Make a mental note and avoid repeating what isn’t preferred. It’s not just about personal preference. Sometimes, he’s just right.
