As you gear up for a new season of ministry, take a deep breath… and a good look around your space. Is it cluttered? Disorganized? Overwhelming? If so, you’re not alone. When we’re buried under piles of supplies or weighed down by endless to-dos, it’s hard to focus on what truly matters: connecting kids to Jesus.

Let this season be the one where you clear the clutter—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Here are three practical ways to simplify and strengthen your ministry rhythm:

1. Clean with Purpose

Pick one drawer, one closet, or one shelf—and empty it completely. Create three piles:
• Keep (only what you actively use in your current ministry season)
• Donate (curriculum, decorations, or craft items that could bless another ministry)
• Pitch (anything broken, expired, or untouched since March 2020)

Don’t overthink it. Be ruthless and intentional. Using clear bins and labels can transform your storage into a source of creativity instead of chaos. Knowing which supplies you have in stock empowers you to be a better steward of ministry resources. Bonus tip: schedule cleanouts quarterly to stay ahead of the clutter before it overwhelms.

2. Master Your Ministry Calendar

Sunday happens every week, but it shouldn’t sneak up on you. Build repeatable systems for your weekly prep work. A simple digital checklist can help you keep tabs on tasks like classroom setup, supply restocking, and volunteer communication.

Take it a step further by creating timelines for seasonal events like VBS, family nights, or holiday programs. Plug dates and tasks into a shared app so everyone on your team stays in the loop and no detail gets dropped.

3. Protect Your Peace

Organization isn’t just about bins and bullet points; it’s about building margin into your ministry life. That means setting boundaries, scheduling rest, and learning to say “no” when necessary. Plan recovery time after big events, and protect space in your week for prayer, reflection, and simply being with God. When you care for your soul, you lead from a place of peace rather than pressure.

Here’s the truth: Ministry will always come with unexpected moments, last-minute needs, and sacred interruptions. But when your environment is in order and your soul is at rest, you’re free to respond with joy instead of stress.

So go ahead—empty that drawer, tweak that calendar, and carve out some stillness. You’re not just getting organized; you’re making room for what matters most. And that’s where the real ministry begins.

Beth Golik is the Ministry Director for Key Ministry, an organization that equips churches to welcome individuals and families affected by disability, particularly hidden disabilities. Visit keyministry.org to schedule a free consultation.