Human beings are creative by nature. Even people who don't think of themselves as particularly gifted in artistic areas probably still have something they are passionate about and good at making. Church leaders often look for volunteers to handle the practical aspects of running a spiritual organization, such as teaching, childcare and event planning. When you are intentional about incorporating creativity as an integral part of your faith community, however, you may find that people are more engaged and excited about what they bring to the table.

Acknowledge Creative Work That's Already Happening

It's unlikely that an organization focused on worshipping a creator would have no creative outlets, so it makes sense to start by assessing the art that is probably already taking place in the regular life of your church. There are many common aspects of religious expression that involve some type of creative element:

• Choral and instrumental music
• Banners and fliers
• Newsletter articles
• Decorations

Once you start to notice how much creative expression is already happening around you, you are less likely to feel overwhelmed at the thought of encouraging people to use their gifts. Enlist the people who are already engaging in artistic work for the church to help with the process, whether it's simply to brainstorm ideas or to actually recruit others to get involved.

Start Some Crafty Small Groups

Even if they are very talented, people are often shy about sharing the things that they create. Therefore, you may have more success getting them involved if you provide a safe place for them to do so. For example, if you know people in the congregation who love to quilt or enjoy woodworking, approach them about starting a group for people who share their interests or would like to learn more about their craft. Before you know it, you may have a few enthusiastic groups meeting regularly to make art together.

This excitement can directly benefit your whole church and the surrounding community. Rather than having to purchase decorations for the church, they can be made by the people who attend, giving them a tangible way to contribute to the worship experience of others. A pottery group may create bowls and other handmade items to sell and raise money for a soup kitchen. What starts as a small knitting circle can blossom into a passionate group that creates beautiful, warm clothing and blankets for the local women's shelter. The potential benefits are as endless as the artists' imaginations. 

Set Aside a Specific Day To Focus on Creation

Many churches participate in Creation Sunday or observe similar celebrations. There are many different things your church can do to focus on the theme, but a good place to start is with the worship service itself. Music, scripture, sermons and prayers can all focus on nature and other aspects of God's creation. Musicians may even perform songs they've composed. Invite writers and poets to prepare short pieces on the importance of humanity's role in creation to share during the service. 

You don't have to limit your celebration to the worship service. Consider asking people to bring things they've made to put on display in a temporary art gallery. Then everyone can walk around and enjoy the fruits of others' passions. If you want to make it more interactive, consider having a children's craft station where the kids (and adults, too) can make something to take home and remind them that their wonder and creativity are gifts to be shared with others.

There's more to active church membership than the distribution of administrative or instructive duties. Encouraging the members of your faith community to embrace their creative sides and share what they love with others is a great way to get people more involved.