A Spiritual Gifts Inventory: Discernment for God’s EmpowermentAbout the Spiritual Gifts Inventory The Spiritual Gifts Inventory is designed to be a helpful process for those who would like to serve the church and community but who may not know what they have to offer. The Psalmist says, "Delight yourself in the LORD, and God will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4, ESV) When we work and minister in those areas that give us delight, we best serve God and fulfill our calling. Paul writes: Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. (1 Corinthians 12:4-7) Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. (Romans 12:6-8) But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift. The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. (Ephesians 4:7, 11-13) We begin from the premise that everyone has gifts, useful, and necessary to the work of God in and through the community, world and church. The second premise is that the gifts we have are not the same gifts, that each of us has something different that we can offer. In no way can it be construed that any one gift is better than any other gift. All gifts are precious. All gifts are needed in the life and ministry of the community and church. We must learn always to find and procure the advantage of God. For God does not give gifts, nor did he ever give one, so that we might keep it and take satisfaction in it; but all were given - all he ever gave on earth or in heaven - that he might give this one more: himself. Therefore, I say that we must learn to look through every gift and every event to God and never be content with the thing itself. There is no stopping place in this life - no, nor was there ever one, no matter how far away a person had gone. This above all, then, be ready at all times for the gifts of God and always for new ones. Johannes Eckhart One means of testing one's ministry is to match it against the fruits of the spirit listed in Galatians: "… the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Ministry should yield fruit. For instance, if one has the gift of hospitality then having people in one's home or welcoming them to church should bring forth feelings of love, joy, peace, etc., rather than making one feel anxious, impatient or imposed on. Using our spiritual gifts for God deepens our spiritual maturity, contentment in service, and daily joy. The spiritual gifts are more than talents or aptitudes. When we use our gifts the power of God moves through us, like electrical current through a wire to a lamp, we light up! Expressing our gifts is a direct path to knowing and experiencing God with us. When we use our gifts there is a sensation or felt knowledge of the presence of something more than just ourselves at work in that moment. It comes in the form of inspiration, new ideas, seeing people or things in a new way, generous amounts of energy, a sudden capacity that “comes out of nowhere,” a sense of joy and “rightness.” As you deepen in your spiritual gifts these experiences become more frequent and give you new insight into God and a deeper feeling of abundance, of being connected to, known and loved by God. We are specifically gifted. Just as your body has specific traits directed by your DNA, the spiritual gifts are our spiritual DNA. They are an expression of God’s plan for our lives. When we use them to build up the church or love the world God has made, we have a feeling of wholeness, of coming home to ourselves, to a realization that we, literally, were made for this. The gifts are doors of God’s grace, the power to make things new, liberate and draw us, and those who experience our gifts, closer to God. More than anything else, the gifts are lived experiences of God active in the community. Living in giftedness brings profound joy to those who give them and to those who receive. For a community to function at it’s best, like your own body, all the parts need to be healthy and recognized for their contribution. Jesus Christ is the only person who had all the gifts of the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit is active in all the members of the church and they work together in harmony as does a human body, amazing things can be accomplished. Truly the body of Christ brings the power of God for new life into our midst. We bring God’s love in specific ways to specific tasks and contexts. It is deeply enjoyable and rewarding for those involved, strengthens relationships, the joy of interdependence and literally, builds up the body of Christ. To take the Spiritual Gifts Inventory, answer each question on its own merits. Use the numbers indicated for the answers, marking them on the Spiritual Gifts Profile sheet. Then list your gifts in descending order, noting the score, and interpret the results (List of Spiritual Gifts). As you note the score you may want to ask yourself: “Do I agree with the results? Why or why not? Am I using my strongest gifts? How, or what do I need to do differently? Are there gifts which I'd like to make stronger? How would I do that? How does what I have learned from the inventory fit into my experience? What does this exercise lead me to do now?” The discernment of gifts is not a solo practice. All gifts must be tested and discerned within community. If you feel that you have a gift, but the community does not affirm that gift, it should be discerned with further scrutiny, prayer and wise counsel. Discuss your gifts openly with your spiritual director, spouse or group. If what you encounter surprises you, share it with them. If you have some doubts, discuss them humbly. Ask for feedback, support, or clarification. Contribute to the affirmation process for the others in your church or small group. After you have identified your spiritual gifts, the process of discernment turns to the discernment of your ability to serve and use your gifts -- living out your baptismal vows -- in the church and community. Spiritual Gifts Inventory Instructions For Use (Time: 10 - 15 minutes to take the inventory, a lifetime to use the spiritual gifts.) 1. There are a total of 64 statements below. On the Profile Sheet indicate whether you Strongly Agree, Agree Somewhat, Undecided, Disagree Somewhat or Strongly Disagree with each question. Don't be modest; answer spontaneously and honestly. 2. Total your scores for each of the gifts. Each gift will have a score between zero and twenty. 3. Order the gifts in descending order of score, one on each line. Higher scores indicate your more dominant gifts. 4. Use the List of Gifts for further study and consider the questions above on this page. 1) I find great joy in leading people to accomplish group goals. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 2) I like to delegate important tasks to others that I know will build them up. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 3) I find that the repair and maintenance of things comes easily to me. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 4) I enjoy motivating others and often I feel encouraged as much as they are. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 5) It is very satisfying to me to be generous. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 6) I enjoy the opportunity to be with and support people who are physically ill. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 7) I like having people in my home. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 8) I feel great compassion for the problems of others and cannot rest until I have done something to help. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 9) I adapt easily in a culture different from mine and can see good things at work in anyone or anyplace. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 10) I like to sing either alone or with other people. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 11) I like to talk about spirituality and frequently have insights into mine or other’s journeys. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 12) I find pleasure communicating with others through my writing/painting/composing and have experienced pieces that seem to create themselves. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 13) People in difficulty come to me for advice and counsel. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 14) I enjoy doing routine tasks that might seemingly bore other people but I have a sense of happiness in providing simple goodness to the group or church. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 15) It seems that people learn readily when I teach them. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 16) I'm willing to keep trying, even when a task is tedious and seems unending. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 17) People seem to enjoy following my leadership in undertaking an important task. When we finish we love and trust each other more deeply. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 18) I enjoy organizing projects and people for more effective results. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 19) I like to create things with my hands and am frequently inspired as I work. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 20) I have a knack for bringing out the best in others. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 21) I share my possessions with others willingly. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 22) I don't mind helping people who are sick or disabled. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 23) I do not feel uncomfortable when people drop in unexpectedly and often find that the visit was just what was needed either for both of us. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 24) I sense joy in comforting people in difficult situations. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 25) It is easy for me to move into a new community and make friends. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 26) God has given me the ability to play a musical instrument and I enjoy it. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 27) I see the needs of others and will speak out for others who do not have power. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 28) I quickly see what is being communicated through the written word. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 29) I enjoy helping others to find solutions to difficult problems in life and perceive very apt solutions that seem to “come out of nowhere.”. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 30) When there is something to be done, I'm glad to help, but I don't want to be in charge. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 31) I have enjoyed teaching individuals and/or classes. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 32) I have an optimistic outlook, even when things seem to go wrong. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 33) I like the challenge and feel energized making important decisions. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 34) I enjoy working with facts and figures in order to successfully complete a project. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 35) I like to spend time and money improving and beautifying things. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 36) People who are feeling perplexed often come to me for encouragement and comfort. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 37) If I cannot give much money to support God's work, I give generously of my time. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 38) I feel peace when I am with a person who is sick or in need and can easily express words of comfort. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 39) People seem to feel very comfortable in my home. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 40) People have expressed that I am a kind, compassionate person. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 41) I seem to have insight into how to relate to and communicate with people of different locations or cultures. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 42) I get great joy from sharing my musical ability for the benefit of others and strongly feel the spiritual flow in music. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 43) It is important for me to speak out against wrong when I see it in the world. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 44) I enjoy composing and arranging communications in a meaningful style that speaks to the mind and spirit. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 45) I feel that I have insight in selecting workable alternatives in difficult situations. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 46) I find more satisfaction in doing a job myself than in finding someone else to do it. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 47) I enjoy training others and empowering them for their work and ministry 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 48) When everyone is discouraged -- even me -- I still trust God and people tell me later that my faith encouraged their faith to keep going. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 49) When I am in a disorganized group, I tend to be the first one to step forward to get us organized. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 50) I get pleasure from making plans to reach a set of goals and easily see ways to do it. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 51) I find pleasure in designing, creating or decorating things. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 52) I like cheering others on when they are doing something well or taking on a difficult task. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 53) I appreciate the opportunity to give of my skills and energy in critical situations. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 54) I feel strongly that my prayers for a sick person are important and the words come easily. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 55) I have opened my home to someone in need. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 56) I find great satisfaction in visiting people who are confined to their homes, in retirement or rehab facilities or hospitals. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 –Strongly Disagree 57) The thought of beginning in a new group or church is exciting to me. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 58) I feel closer to God singing, playing or listening to music, 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 59) I feel I am called to stand up for what is right even if it irritates others. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 60) I easily make sense of specialized information (like computers, blueprints, accounting, or other technical information.) 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 61) I have confidence in dealing with problems and enjoy solving them. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 62) I like to do things without attracting much attention. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 63) It is easy to organize materials for teaching and I frequently connect specific learning to specific students. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree 64) Even when it seems that my prayer isn't answered, I keep praying. 4 - Strongly Agree 3 - Agree Somewhat 2 - Undecided 1 - Disagree Somewhat 0 - Strongly Disagree Spiritual Gifts Profile, Sheet 1 Name___________________________ Date _____________ Put your scores for each question into the following table, then compute the sum of each row. This provides your score for each spiritual gift. 1____ 17____ 33____ 49____ = ____ Leadership 2____ 18____ 34____ 50____ = ____ Administration 3____ 19____ 35____ 51____ = ____ Craftsmanship 4____ 20____ 36____ 52____ = ____ Exhortation 5____ 21____ 37____ 53____ = ____ Giving 6____ 22____ 38____ 54____ = ____ Healing 7____ 23____ 39____ 55____ = ____ Hospitality 8____ 24____ 40____ 56____ = ____ Mercy 9____ 25____ 41____ 57____ = ____ Missionary 10____ 26____ 42____ 58____ = ____ Musician 11____ 27____ 43____ 59____ = ____ Prophet 12____ 28____ 44____ 60____ = ____ Communication 13____ 29____ 45____ 61____ = ____ Wisdom 14____ 30____ 46____ 62____ = ____ Serving 15____ 31____ 47____ 63____ = ____ Teacher 16____ 32____ 48____ 64____ = ____ Faith In the spaces below, list your gifts in descending order of score. Use the List of Gifts for further study. Interpreting the Numbers 13 - 16 You are either doing this or you should be. 9 - 12 You could easily do this if you want to. 5 - 8 You would have to work hard to do this gracefully. 0 - 4 You probably would not enjoy doing this. Score Gift ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ ___ ____________________________________________________ List of Spiritual Gifts, Sheet 2 The Spiritual Gifts Inventory can help you determine which spiritual gifts you have. The questions assess your gifts. Each description below includes scripture references and has a listing of roles in church work, ending with a comma. (This is to invite you to add more roles that you think fit the gifts.) Look over the material for your top three scores. If you have time, look at the information for any scores that you have doubts about. Administration -The Holy Spirit enables some of us to motivate, direct and inspire God's people in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to do the work effectively. To exercise the gift of administration is to assume oversight for the proper execution of an organization or program (being in charge of people or things). The gift of administration can bring creativity out of chaos and lead a way forward from confusion to vision. This gift involves being able to put things together, tie up all the "loose ends" and get things done, setting patterns that others may follow -- by direction, instruction, guidance, encouragement and example. Adeptness at financing, planning, organizing, delegating responsibilities and problem-solving can be indications of the gift of administration. Read: Hebrews 13:7, Judges 3:10, Exodus 18:13-16 Ministries using the gift of administration: Committee chairperson, Sunday School Superintendent, Warden, Building Committee member or chairperson, Treasurer, Sunday money counter, administer the stewardship campaign, Youth Leader, organizing parish outreach efforts, attend meetings & conferences, synod delegate or alternate, Diocesan involvement (committee/task force work), Organize receptions, Church Clean-up organizer, Family Fun Night organizer, Coordinate Scheduling of Sunday Service Participants, Communication - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to communicate or to understand in forms or communication beyond the ordinary. In what ever mode we communicate people hear,, lean and understand God and deeper spiritual truth. To exercise this gift one may know how to write or create newsletters, websites, or do marketing. Adeptness at combining visual, verbal and artistic means to communicate, or using various art forms to transmit spiritual ideas or meaning in imaginative ways is a common experience in this gift. It may extend to communicating in a foreign language or anything (such as ASL, Braille, art, music and more) other than our own native language. Ease, imagination, aptness and insight are key markers for this gift. read: Acts 2:5-11, Psalm 104:2b-35 Ministries using the gift of communication: ministry for the deaf or blind, poverty ministry, ministry in a specialized area, faith building publications, marketing, website construction, social media, communications committee, sharing meditations on art, music or nature, expressing one's faith through art, word or music that inspires fath and experiences of the Holy Spirit in others. Craftsmanship - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to use our hands and minds to build up the Kingdom of God through artistic, creative means. To exercise the gift of craftsmanship one must have or develop a skill, be it a hobby or a vocation, and must be willing to share this ability with others either in finished products or in teaching others to do the skill. This gift involves any art or craft or skill, from painting to pottery, to woodwork or weaving, computer skills or photography -- any art or craft that can be used to the glory of God. read: Exodus 28:3-4, Jeremiah 18:1-6, Exodus 35:35 Ministries using the gift of craftsmanship: Craft workshop leader or participant, Care for or make altar linens, vestment, banners, Make articles for the church, Sunday School & clergy, Interior decoration of church, Pictorial Directory committee, design t-shirts/sweatshirts for parish, Flower arranging, parish newsletter, designing church gardens/labyrinths. Exhortation - The Holy Spirit empowers some of us to stand beside other people who are in need and bring comfort, counsel and encouragement so they feel helped. To exercise the gift of exhortation is to call forth the best from others. This gift involves helping others to be more dedicated in living out their faith, bolstering them up when they are discouraged or downhearted, challenging them to see the goals to which God calls them. People with this gift get groups going when they are stuck. read: Acts 11:23-24, Acts 14:21-22 Ministries using the gift of exhortation or encouragement: Committee chairperson, Pastoral Caregiver, Justice projects, Capital Campaign leader, new Christians mentor, working with young people, ministering to clergy, preaching, lay reading, work with older people or the handicapped, writing letters to those who need encouragement, prison ministry, couples ministry, new parent support, Alzheimer caregiver support. Faith - The Holy Spirit provides some of us with extraordinary confidence in God's promises, power, and presence so that they can take heroic stands for the future of God's work in the church. Those gifted with Faith have access to internal and external resources to keep going when others give up. Although risk and obstacles may be present those with the gift of faith persevere and inspire others to follow. This gift involves a healthy prayer life, sensitivity to the will of God, and a firm trust that God will come through, even when there is no concrete evidence. read: Hebrews 11 Ministries using the gift of faith: Tithing, Stewardship Committee, Capital campaign supporter, warden, Outreach Ministries committee, Prayer chain, autism outreach, Building Committee member, long range planning, call committees, shelter volunteer, crisis volunteer, missionary. Giving - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to offer their energies, abilities and material resources for the work of the church with exceptional willingness, cheerfulness and generosity. To exercise the gift of giving one operates out of a spirit of freedom leading into selflessness, requiring no recognition or reward for their giving. People with this gift are not afraid of money, but see it first and foremost as a tool for building the kingdom of God and caring for God’s people. This gift involves offering one's time, energy, talent, skills, material possessions and money. read: 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, Matthew 6:1-4 Ministries using the gift of giving: Tithing, Stewardship Committee, project supporter, flowers for services, donate to a charity, Christmas gifts to a shelter, participating in parish programs and projects, not-for profit board member. Healing - The Holy Spirit leads some of us to share in restoring the sick. To exercise the gift of healing is to pray not necessarily for cure but for God's help for the sufferer, that something of good may come out of the distress. Those gifted with Healing are open to and can identify God’s presence in surprise progress in a patient’s recovery. This gift involves a healthy prayer life, confidence in God's power to provide courage in suffering, and wellness of spirit regardless of the condition of the body or mind. read: James 5:13-16, Luke 9:1-2 , II Kings 5:1-3, 9-14 Ministries using the gift of healing: Pastoral Caregiver, Prayer Chain member, participate in the healing ministry of the church, member of the Order of Saint Luke, visit the sick, visit in hospitals, intercessory prayer with or for the sick, Hospitality - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to open our personal and church homes willingly and offer lodging, food, and fellowship cheerfully to other people. A concern for the comfort of others may be a manifestation of the gift of hospitality. This gift involves having a knack for making people at ease, enjoying being in the presence of strangers, being willing to offer one's home as ministry and to make their ministries at church welcoming and homelike. Those with the gift of hospitality are a conduit of God’s grace into the community they serve. read: Hebrews 13:1-2, Genesis 18:1-8 Ministries using the gift of hospitality: Sidesperson, Small group host, Meals on wheels, Agapé foods, Help with Pancake Supper, Sunday Coffee host, Breadmaker, Greeter, Membership/Newcomers Committee, entertaining guests of the parish, assisting refugees, being a foster parent. Leadership - The spiritual gift of leadership in the church is to care for God’s people and lead them into deeper relationship with Christ and each other. They base their success on how well they help others succeed and grow in their spiritual walk with Jesus. They are able to accomplish many different tasks and objectives as they lead, but they will always lead relationally and with a deep concern for the well-being of others. They are “visionary” and see the big picture. They have the capacity to see competing values and to lead their communities in discernment. Many are entrepreneurial and willing to take risks to see the kingdom of God advanced through the church. They will go to great lengths to protect those under their care and are well-equipped to lead through crisis situations. Read: Romans 12:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; 1 Timothy 3:4-5, 12; 5:17. Ministries using the gift of leadership: Committee chairperson, Sunday School Superintendent, Warden, Building Committee member or chairperson, Treasurer, head up the stewardship/capital campaign, Youth Leader, organizing parish outreach efforts, Convention delegate or alternate, Diocesan involvement (committee/task force work), Organize receptions, Church Clean-up organizer, Family Fun Night organizer, community organizing, interfaith partnerships. Mercy and Caregiving - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to feel exceptional empathy and compassion for those who are weak or suffering so that they devote large amounts of time and energy to alleviate these conditions and do their tasks more effectively. To exercise the gift of mercy and caregiving is to relate to others in kindness and compassion and give assistance or relief from distress. This gift involves continual readiness to forgive those who have erred, comfort the bereaved, help those who face a crisis, give assistance or relief from distress where needed, minister to the sick, become a peacemaker or offer assistance to those in need. It may include sudden, strong feelings and insight into the situations of others that are experienced as God’s specific care for the other in the moment. read: Luke 10:30-37, Micah 6:8, Matthew 25:34-40, Acts 6:2-4 Ministries using the gift of mercy: Pastoral Caregiver, Hospice volunteer, Prison ministry, AIDS ministry, Deaf ministry, Poverty ministry, Clothes Closet, Nursery care, concerns of the elderly, concerns of the disabled, visit the sick or shut-ins, calling on lapsed members, participating in programs concentrating on social needs, caring for the disadvantage, comforting the bereaved, Greeter, Usher, Youth Leader, legislative advocate, outreach programs, Missionary - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to minister in a second culture or second community, whatever other spiritual gifts they have. To exercise the gift of missions is not to impose one's beliefs on another, but to faithfully and mutually share what one has learned about God. This gift involves a willingness to be with and share with people of different heritage, customs, economic background, experience, or manner of speaking, as much a willingness to listen as to speak, and an awareness that God loves all people, no matter what they believe or how they express their beliefs. read: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 , Mark 16:15-20, 1 Peter 3:15 Ministries using the gift of missions: Community Service volunteer, Meals on Wheels volunteer, Welcome Table, sponsor a refugee family, prison ministry, migrant-worker ministry, foreign missions, local church invitation campaigns. Musician - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to praise God through various forms of music and deepen the worship experience of a local congregation or the church at large. To exercise the gift of music may involve some skill in singing or in playing an instrument, but may also include the ability to select appropriate music for a worship service or parish event. The gift enables the gifted to hear and offer the right music at the right time to encourage and build up the community in any given situation. Those with this gift feel God most strongly in the expression of their musical capacity. read: 1 Corinthians 14:26, Psalm 98:1, 4-6, Psalm150:3-6 Ministries using the gift of music: Choir member, church musician (instrument), Congregation singer or Cantor, music planning, music outreach for church growth, liturgical planning committee. Prophet - The Holy Spirit empowers some of us to interpret and apply God's revelation in a given situation. This gift involves a keen sense of the dignity of all people, a sense of call, a sense of timing, knowledge of Scripture and the workings of the church. People with the gift of Prophecy speak God’s demand for justice and mercy to present situations. Speaking prophetically comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable. They are made for the times in which they live and speak authentically to its issues. read: 1 Corinthians 14:1-5, 1 Corinthians 14:30-33a, 1 Corinthians 14:37-40 Ministries using the gift of prophesy: Preacher, Counselor, Bible Study leader or participant, Disciple member, Conference delegate or alternate, journalist, artist, community organizer, outreach discernment and church/community partnership building, political engagement. Serving - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to willingly share the burdens of others and support them in such a way that they can do their tasks more effectively. To exercise the gift of serving is to identify closely with the needs and problems of others, not providing answers or solutions, but being willing to work with them, no matter how small or how big the task may be. This gift involves a willingness to "pitch in" and do whatever is needed, no matter how detailed or tedious the task. Those gifted bring cheerfulness to routine tasks and recognize and experience spiritual satisfactions in daily accomplishments. read: Galatians 6:1-2, Philippians 2:3-8 Ministries using the gift of serving: Committee member, Clothes Closet volunteer, Meals on Wheels volunteer, Acolyte/Server, Chancel Guild member, Communion or Welcome Bread maker, Office volunteer, Flower and Garden volunteer, Habitat for Humanity, Food for Habitat workers, Welcoming Arms, Welcome Table, Red Cross Blood drive, Outreach Ministries Committee, Food Bank, Poverty Advocate, Work day participant, Sunday morning close-up, Repairs around the church, cleaning the church, Painting, caring for parish food gardens. Teacher - The Holy Spirit enables some of us to communicate so that others can learn and incorporate what is learned. To exercise the gift of teaching one effectively imparts information or proclaims precepts of spiritual life and truth, either vocally, visually or by example so that people clearly perceive God’s teaching and hope for them. Those gifted with Teaching people are able to internalize sacred truth, beauty and freedom practically, spiritually and intellectually, they easily combine and impart scriptural, spiritual and theological understanding that generates new understanding and new life. read: Hebrews 5:12-14, Isaiah 28:9-10 Ministries using the gift of teaching: Sunday School teacher, Youth leader, Tutor, Train acolytes/lectors/layreaders, Day Care volunteer, work with young people, social ministries involving teaching or training others, EFM leader, after-school volunteer, preacher, small group leader. Wisdom - The Holy Spirit endows some of us with an understanding of God's will and work as it relates to the living of life. To exercise the gift of wisdom is to help others to discover the wisdom they have within them. This gift involves knowledge of God and of Scripture, discernment of God's will, and skill in analyzing the problems and dilemmas of life. They easily share their own life experience and transfer their learning in meaningful ways to others. Those with the gift of wisdom have often suffered and are not afraid of difficult or painful situations and will bring what they have learned in hopeful and encouraging ways. read Sirach 1:14-19, James 3:13-17, Ecclesiastes 9:13-18, Romans 5: 1 – 5. Ministries using the gift of wisdom: Barnabas minister, Spiritual Director, synod delegate or alternate, Disciple mentor, Youth leader, Pastoral Caregiver, Hospice volunteer, Contact volunteer, warden, community leader, pastoral search committee, couples ministry, pre-marriage preparation. _________________________ A special note of thanks to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America and Neal Boese for giving permission to use and modify the ELCA Gifts Inventory to produce Spiritual Gifts Inventory: Discernment for God’s Empowerment. |
