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As we step toward 2026, there’s a growing sense that none of us are meant to do this work alone. Churches, schools, and camps thrive when safety isn’t the responsibility of one person but a shared commitment woven into the life of the community. And while every ministry looks different, the path toward deeper collaboration, stronger teams, and a culture of care often begins with a few intentional steps. Here are some practical ways to strengthen your ministry community for the year ahead.
1. Build a Core Safety Team—Even If It Starts Small
Every ministry needs a group of people who carry the responsibility together. It doesn’t have to be large. It simply has to be committed.Where to begin:
- Identify two to four people with steady hearts and a desire to serve.
- Assign clear roles—communication, training, emergency response, documentation.
- Meet quarterly to review needs, strengthen plans, and share updates.
2. Make Collaboration Part of Your Ministry Rhythm
Safety becomes sustainable when it’s part of the natural flow of ministry—not an afterthought.Easy ways to integrate collaboration:
- Invite safety team members to staff meetings once each quarter.
- Share simple awareness reminders in worship services, classrooms, and team huddles.
- Bring teachers, pastors, volunteers, and administrators together for one annual safety conversation.
3. Share Knowledge Openly and Regularly
Communities grow stronger when information isn’t held by one person but shared freely.Try this in 2026:
- Send a short monthly “safety snapshot” update to staff and volunteers.
- Keep a shared folder with emergency plans, incident forms, and training materials.
- Encourage team members who attend conferences or ARM trainings to debrief what they learned.
4. Equip New Leaders and Volunteers Early
Every ministry has natural turnover. New volunteers, new teachers, new deacons, new camp staff. Instead of letting people “figure things out,” make onboarding purposeful.Simple onboarding wins:
- Provide a 10-minute overview of emergency procedures.
- Walk new volunteers through facility exits and safety tools.
- Introduce them to the safety team so they know who to go to with concerns.
5. Rekindle a Culture of Care Through Small, Consistent Actions
At its core, safety is about love—protecting others because their lives matter. That spirit comes alive through small habits practiced regularly.Some ways to nurture that culture:
- Begin meetings with a short prayer for protection, wisdom, and awareness.
- Celebrate “quiet wins” (a near miss prevented, a policy followed, a good decision made).
- Encourage leaders to look out for vulnerable individuals or moments. - Reflect on Psalm 91 or similar passages during devotionals or staff worship.
6. Strengthen Your Connection With ARM
You’re not walking this road alone. Adventist Risk Management exists to support and empower you.Heading into 2026:
- Explore ARM’s downloadable tools for safety teams.
- Invite your local ARM representative to speak or train.
- Listen to the Let’s Talk Solutions podcast to keep your team informed.
- Ask questions—your concerns matter, and your ministry is not forgotten.
A Final Word for the New Year
As you prepare for 2026, remember this: your ministry community is stronger than you think, and every intentional effort—every meeting, every update, every training—helps create a safer, more caring environment.You’re building more than plans.
You’re building trust.
You’re building confidence.
You’re building a place where people can grow in faith without fear.
And that’s a beautiful way to begin a new year.
