About
Can you remember who encouraged you to be a pastor?
Most likely, it was another pastor who spoke an encouraging word to you at just the right moment, perhaps without even realizing the impact he was making. Ministry Recruitment Counselors exist to support you as you encourage the future called workers that sit in your pews.
Common Questions
How can I encourage those in my congregation?
Most pastors point to someone who noticed their gifts and said something. You don’t need a formal program. Start by observing, praying, and speaking specifically: “I’ve noticed how you lead. Have you ever thought about ministry?”
Don’t forget that kids can grow, change, and be equipped for ministry. Jesus said, “I will MAKE you fishers of men.” He told his disciples, who were unlikely candidates, that he was going to turn them into something new!
What does a Ministry Recruitment Counselor actually do?
They support you in the encourager role by providing resources, conversation guides, bulletin inserts, and personal coaching so you can intentionally cultivate the next generation of called workers in your congregation.
Twenty years from now, who will say my name?
This is the central question. Future pastors and teachers are in your pews right now. Your encouragement in your modeled joy, a well-timed word, or a prayer can be the catalyst.
How do I encourage someone without putting pressure on them?
Listen, affirm, and ask open questions. By asking a young person what career path they are considering, identify what draws them to it. Could that aspect also lead them into ministry? A young boy says he wants to be a firefighter. Why? Because he wants to protect people. That’s what a pastor does! A young girl says she wants to be a nurse. Why? Because she wants to care for people. That heart could also be used in public ministry. Encourage them to explore options like campus visits, summer camps, youth events, or conversations with other called workers.
What resources are available for my congregation?
Ministry Recruitment Counselors can provide bulletin inserts, printable posters, strategic plans, and connections to circuit/district scholarship funds. Contact a recruiter to request materials or a congregational visit.
How do I encourage someone already considering a second career in ministry?
Share examples of people who entered ministry later in life and the unique experience they brought. Offer your support, pray with them, and connect them with a Ministry Recruitment Counselor for next steps.
What’s the simplest next step I can take today?
Pray for one specific person. Then tell them you’re praying for them and why.
Done-For-You Resources
Bulletin Inserts
Keep ministry awareness front and center with ready-to-use inserts designed for weekly worship bulletins.
“From the Field” Ministry Recruitment Ideas
Spark fresh ideas for congregational recruitment with real-world stories and practical approaches shared by pastors in the field.
Sample Congregational Recruitment Strategy
Initiate a congregation-wide culture of ministry awareness and encouragement with this strategy document template.
Ministry Encouragement Coordinator Description
Equip your congregation with a framework for designating a point person to champion public ministry recruitment efforts.
Called to Serve Bible Study
Lead your congregation through a study exploring the call to public ministry and the joy of serving God’s church full-time.
Here Am I Bible Study
Walk through scripture and invite your congregation to ask, “Lord, what about me?”
Prayers for Recruitment & Public Ministry
Bring the need for ministry workers before God with ready-to-use prayers.
Passage Examples for Recruitment Sermons & Devotions
Browse a collection of Scripture passages that mention ministry, ready to be the basis for your next sermon or devotion.
Outlines & Ideas for Recruitment Sermons
Save preparation time with sermon outlines and creative ideas for preaching on the gift and calling of full-time ministry.
Search for Elisha: God Provides the Message & the Messenger
Read or adapt a sample sermon to inspire full-time ministry.
Contact the Team
Whether you’d like to request a recruitment visit to your congregation or you’d simply like to ask for prayers for a candidate you know, our Ministry Recruitment Counselors are ready to hear from you.