From the Virtual Interactive Appendix to ...Supervising Volunteers...

Volunteers in a Religious Setting

We believe that through baptism there is both an entitlement and an obligation to serve. We emphasize that members are not ministering as individuals but as members of a faith community. It therefore becomes the church's obligation to develop a supervisory system that facilitates membership involvement, whether service is in the church or in the community. The three elements of the supervisory system are: 1) processes for recruitment; 2) preparation for service in ministry; and 3) opportunities to reflect on one's experience in ministry.

In a faith community recruitment focuses not just on the need or role to be filled, but also on assisting the individual in discerning his/her gifts. Finding an avenue for volunteers to utilize their gifts and/or desires makes the ministry and volunteer experience richer and more rewarding. It is important for volunteers to realize that they are being called by God.

Preparation for service may involve formal training or informal mentoring. This empowers volunteers to perform their roles with confidence and meaning.

Giving individuals the opportunity to share their experiences is the most essential supervisory role. Through faith sharing or theological reflection volunteers are able to tell their stories and reflect on how they have grown through their experience. Growth in faith is the result that members expect from their volunteer/ministry experience and, indeed it is the Biblical purpose of service. When members feel their growth there is a sense of satisfaction and motivation. This is essential for the success of any ministry.

Sean Conyngham, Director of Shared Ministry and Sue DeMartini, Chairperson, Shared Ministry Committee, Church of the Presentation, Upper Saddle River, NJ

Please share your experiences supervising volunteers in special settings/assignments.

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