Church Volunteers: Creating Impact for First Time Guests

Editor’s Note: Church volunteers are the heartbeat of every ministry, shaping first impressions and creating moments that inspire guests to return. Drawing from insights by Rommel Manio, Campus Experience Pastor at SBA Church, this blog explores how to empower volunteers to serve with humility, purpose, and intentionality, making a lasting impact on first-time guests.

The Role of Church Volunteers

Church volunteers are more than helpers—they’re ambassadors of Christ and your church’s mission. From greeting guests at the door to serving on worship teams, volunteers play a crucial role in creating an environment that feels welcoming, inclusive, and spiritually uplifting.


First impressions matter, and they’re often shaped by volunteers. Whether it’s a warm smile or a simple act of kindness, these interactions can make a lasting impact. Volunteers embody the church’s values in action, offering guests a glimpse of the community they’re stepping into.

Are you ready to take your church experience to the next level? Explore practical tools and transformative training at the First Impressions Academy and make a lasting impact!

The Heart of Service: Shifting Perspectives

An exceptional volunteer program starts with the right mindset. Serving in the church shouldn’t feel like an obligation; it should feel like an opportunity to make a difference. As Rommel Manio emphasizes, the shift from “I have to serve” to “I get to serve” can transform how volunteers approach their roles.


This perspective encourages humility and gratitude, reminding volunteers that their service is about pointing people to Jesus. It’s not just a task—it’s a privilege to be part of someone’s spiritual journey. Leaders play a critical role in instilling this mindset by regularly sharing stories of impact and expressing appreciation for the team’s efforts.

The 5 A’s: Essential Traits for Volunteers

Volunteers are often the first faces guests encounter when they visit a church, making their interactions critical to shaping positive impressions. It’s not just about completing tasks—it’s about how those tasks are approached and delivered. The way volunteers greet, serve, and connect with others reflects the heart of the church and its mission. By embodying key traits, volunteers can create an atmosphere where guests feel valued, cared for, and inspired to return. These traits serve as guiding principles that elevate every interaction into a meaningful and memorable moment.

¹ Attitude

A positive attitude sets the tone for every interaction. Volunteers with a humble and joyful heart show guests that they’re valued and welcome.

² Attentiveness

Guests deserve undivided attention. Volunteers should focus on meeting guests’ needs rather than being distracted by routines or personal concerns.

³ Awareness

Being aware of the surroundings helps volunteers anticipate needs and respond proactively. Whether it’s noticing a lost visitor or offering assistance to a family, awareness creates a seamless experience.

⁴ Attractability

Volunteers who serve with authenticity and enthusiasm draw others closer to Christ. Their actions inspire guests to feel at home and even consider serving themselves.

⁵ Appreciation

Serving with a thankful heart transforms the experience. Volunteers who see service as a privilege, not a chore, inspire others with their gratitude and joy.

These traits don’t just improve guest experiences—they build a culture of excellence within the volunteer team. For more on building a strong church culture, check out our blog on Church Culture.

Making It Personal: Knowing Your “Jackie”

Every guest who walks through the doors has a story, and every volunteer has the chance to play a part in it. Rommel Manio shares the story of Jackie, a guest who spent six months driving around her church before finally finding the courage to attend.

When Jackie was met with kindness and warmth from the ushers, her anxiety turned into belonging. That one positive experience changed her life—she became a regular attendee, a volunteer, and eventually a leader.
This story reminds us that every guest is someone’s “Jackie.” Volunteers should approach each interaction as if they’re welcoming a close friend or loved one who needs encouragement. By making it personal, volunteers can create moments that lead to transformation.

For more on the role of leadership in inspiring and managing volunteers, visit our blog on Church Leadership.

Takeaways and Practical Tips for Managing Church Volunteers

Managing a team of volunteers requires intentionality and a commitment to their growth and well-being. Here are some actionable strategies to help leaders inspire and manage their teams:

• Define Roles Clearly
  Volunteers thrive when they know what’s expected of them. Write detailed descriptions for each role, including tasks, time commitments, and desired outcomes. For example, a greeter’s responsibilities might include welcoming guests with a smile, providing directions, and noticing any visitors who seem unsure of where to go. During orientation, walk volunteers through their roles to ensure clarity and confidence.
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• Offer Regular Training
  Equip volunteers with the skills they need to succeed through workshops, shadowing opportunities, or video tutorials. For example, ushers could benefit from role-playing scenarios to practice guiding guests or responding to emergencies. Schedule ongoing training to keep volunteers updated on changes and provide opportunities for spiritual growth, such as prayer meetings or devotionals tailored to their roles.
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• Provide Consistent Feedback
  Feedback should be a regular part of volunteer management—not just during annual reviews. Take time after events or services to share quick observations, recognizing what went well and suggesting areas for improvement. For example, after a busy Sunday service, you could thank the parking team for handling a high turnout smoothly and suggest ways to optimize traffic flow next time.
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• Foster Collaboration
  Volunteers often feel more connected when they work as part of a team. Encourage collaboration by assigning group projects, like decorating the sanctuary for a special event or planning a community outreach initiative. Pair experienced volunteers with newcomers to create mentorship opportunities and help build a sense of camaraderie. Consider hosting team-building activities, such as a volunteer appreciation dinner or a fun outing, to strengthen relationships.
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• Celebrate Contributions
  Volunteers need to know their work matters. Create a culture of gratitude by recognizing their efforts regularly. Highlight individual achievements in newsletters, during services, or on social media. For example, a “Volunteer of the Month” feature can showcase exceptional dedication. Simple gestures like personalized thank-you notes or gift cards for coffee can also go a long way in showing appreciation.

When volunteers feel supported and valued, they’re more likely to serve with passion and commitment, enhancing the overall guest experience.

The Bottom Line: Volunteers Are the Heartbeat of the Church

Church volunteers don’t just fill roles—they shape lives. From welcoming guests to leading ministries, their actions create the foundation for exceptional guest experiences and spiritual growth.

As leaders, it’s our responsibility to inspire, equip, and appreciate these vital team members. By fostering a culture of service and gratitude, we empower volunteers to make a lasting impact, one guest at a time.