Don't Lead Alone: The Five Best Tasks to Give Away
Jay Gordon
Seeing people grow in Christ as they serve Him is really exciting, but sometimes leaders feel that they need to do it all and are hesitant to ask people to get involved. We all need to be reminded of God's plan. He gifted the people in your group with spiritual gifts that are designed to build up the body of Christ, and your group is a great place for people to get their first taste of serving. First Corinthians 12:7 says, "A manifestation of the Spirit is given to each person for the common good." Getting people involved will help develop those gifts in their lives, and it will also bless you as the group leader. Here are the top five tasks you should consider giving away.
1. Prayer Leader - This person records prayer requests to share with the group. Not only is that helpful for those who weren't there, but the email serves as a prayer reminder to all. Some groups post these on GroupMe or via text.
2. Communications Leader - This person handles communication for the group (announcements, ministry opportunities, etc.) and may even be the person who communicates regularly with the church, reporting attendance and updating the group roster. They would also secure information from new guests.
3. Fellowship Leader - This person schedules and coordinates get-togethers for the group outside of normal meeting times. That involves enlisting hosts, planning meals, etc..
4. Substitute Leaders - There are many options for this role, but this person - or these people - would take occasional group-leading responsibilities off of the leader. Use this person regularly, even if the group leader is not absent. One option would be for this to be an apprentice leader who might help start a new group in the future.
5. Ministry Leader - This person might coordinate both ministry within the group (due to death or illness in the family) and ministry outside of the group (service projects, mission opportunities, etc.).
Are you a leader who is doing it all? Consider either asking for volunteers or pencil some names in beside these roles and ask them individually. You will be less tired, and God will bless the group and the new volunteers through their service.