Volunteers are the backbone of any children’s ministry. Without them, the programs and activities that impact kids’ lives would come to a standstill. However, working with volunteers goes far beyond just recruiting them. It involves genuinely caring for their well-being and investing in their growth. Here’s a guide to pastoring your volunteers using a simple acronym—PASTOR—that will help you build a thriving volunteer team.

P - Pray for Them

Your volunteers carry a lot with them each week. They may have burdens or challenges in their personal lives that affect how they serve. One of the best ways to show your care is through prayer. Pray for them and, whenever possible, pray with them. It’s amazing how prayer can strengthen relationships and build a sense of unity. Plus, it’s hard to hold a grudge against someone you’re consistently lifting up in prayer. Make it a point to reach out, ask how you can pray for them, and then follow through.

A - Ask Them Questions

Do you know what your volunteers are passionate about? Have you taken the time to learn about their families, hobbies, or struggles? No volunteer wants to feel like they’re just a cog in the machine. Make the effort to ask them questions and show genuine interest in their lives. This might involve grabbing coffee with a volunteer, checking in during the week, or organizing casual meet-ups where your team can connect and have fun. When your volunteers feel seen and valued beyond their service roles, they’ll become even more engaged and motivated.

S - Show Appreciation

If you need more volunteers, start by making heroes out of the ones you already have. Showing appreciation is a powerful way to build a culture of gratitude within your ministry. A simple thank-you card, a quick text, or even a three-minute phone call can mean the world to someone. Consider adopting the “3-2-1” rule: each week, make three phone calls, send two texts, and mail one handwritten card to different volunteers. Hosting volunteer appreciation events is another great way to celebrate their contributions and make them feel special.

T - Treasure Their Kids

Many volunteers have kids of their own, and one of the best ways to show you value them is by caring for their children. Remember their kids’ birthdays and send a card. Plan fun activities for their kids when they’ve been serving all day. When you go out of your way to treasure their families, it shows your volunteers that you care about their whole lives, not just their roles in the ministry.

O - Offer Them Breaks

Serving in ministry can be demanding, even for the most dedicated volunteers. It’s crucial to recognize when someone needs a break. Just like professional baseball players get breaks during a 162-game season, your volunteers need time to recharge. Be proactive in offering them time off, even if they don’t ask for it. Let them know it’s okay to step back for a Sunday or two without feeling guilty. This can prevent burnout and help them come back refreshed and ready to serve again.

R - Resource Them

Empower your volunteers with the tools and training they need to succeed. Don’t just feed them donuts and coffee; feed them spiritually and professionally. Provide resources like articles from KidzMatter Magazine or share a podcast episode that could encourage them in their roles. Invest in their development through training opportunities like Global KidMin Day or events like the KidzMatter Conference. A well-equipped volunteer is a confident volunteer, and they’ll be more effective in their ministry roles.

Final Thoughts

Pastoring your volunteers isn’t just about managing a team—it’s about loving them, investing in their lives, and helping them grow. When you put effort into praying, asking, showing appreciation, treasuring their families, offering breaks, and resourcing them, you create a culture where volunteers feel valued and cared for. In turn, they’ll pour their hearts into the ministry and help you reach more kids for Jesus.

​Your volunteers aren’t just helping with Sunday School or events; they’re your partners in ministry. By pastoring them well, you’ll see your team flourish and your ministry thrive. So take a moment today to think about how you can show up for your volunteers in new ways. It’s an investment that pays eternal dividends.

Ryan Frank is a pastor, publisher, and entrepreneur. He and his wife Beth are the founders of KidzMatter.