How To Start Your Ministry From Zero

Maybe last year did not end as you wanted it to, or with the recent rise in COVID cases, you know that you are going into the new year needing a brand new plan. Either way, starting from zero mid-year can seem like a daunting task. You might not feel like you have the energy or the resources, but the reality is that anytime things are not moving in the direction you hoped is an excellent time to hit pause, step back and assess the situation.

If you are in a place where you might need to start over, the first thing you need to do is:

TAKE A BASIC ANALYSIS

When evaluating a ministry or program, you do not have to do anything complex. I personally like a S.W.O.T. (Strengths. Weaknesses. Opportunities. Threats) Analysis. All you need to do is make four columns, with those four words on top, and make a list of characteristics, people, resources, etc., that fit into those categories. Once you’ve done that analysis, you’ll want to answer the following questions:

1. How do I get more out of my strengths? 
2. What can I do to address these weaknesses?
3. What do I need to take advantage of these opportunities?
4. Who can help me tackle these threats?

Taking a step back to evaluate the program will confirm certain feelings, and it will dispel any myths that might have consumed your mind. Either way, taking account of where you are is the first step to moving forward.

ASSEMBLE THE  TEAM

Don’t be afraid to sit with a team to analyze because gaining other perspectives will give you a complete picture. Regardless of whether they help you evaluate the ministry, a team will help you answer the four questions from above. Try to hold off on your answers until you gain their perspective. Allow the team to discuss the ministry while you absorb their intel. The more you listen to their thoughts, the more it will help you develop your analysis.

Your team does not have to be large in size. I always like to sit with around six other people. Make sure it represents who you are trying to reach and has diversity. Again, you are striving for a holistic picture.

REMEMBER THE LONG GAME

After you meet with the team, people will be excited to make changes, which is excellent. But don’t feel like you have to get everything done right away. Change takes time, and even if there is the excitement to accomplish your goals, you will still have to grow the team and convince others to join your efforts. As you jump into action, make sure you break down the process into manageable steps. Set a schedule with actionable items with clear outcomes. You want your team clear on what needs to get done to move the vision to the next steps. Don’t be afraid to think big, but make sure everything you are doing has a chance of success. 

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN PRAYER

Any change requires trust in God, and for many, the whole idea of doing anything differently can seem like too much. It’s essential that you embrace daily prayer and commit to making prayer a part of your team’s culture. Not only should you pray every time you gather, but invite them to join you in your personal prayer. You could commit to a novena or meet up for Adoration or Mass. Regardless of what you do, make sure you pray and grow in faith together.

Starting your ministry from zero can seem like a large pill to swallow, but it’s possible if you slow down the urgency and take a step back. Trust that God has surrounded you with everything and everyone that you need. Lean into Him and allow Him to guide you. And if you need someone to help you take that next step, reach out to us at Marathon Youth Ministry. We specialize in strategic planning and coaching for ministry leaders, parish, and diocesan staff. To set up an appointment, click HERE.