At Grand Rapids First, we believe that as volunteers, you represent Christ, our church, and its mission inside and outside its walls. These guidelines provide clear expectations and help cultivate a Christ-centered environment.
Serving Requirements
Pastor Sam often says, “The higher you go in leadership, the fewer freedoms you have.” No matter where you serve, you are in a position of influence. There is a place for everyone to serve at Grand Rapids First, and each level of serving carries increasing levels of responsibility and trust. All volunteers must attend Serve 201.
Level 1
Individuals can get involved through serving in entry level roles while becoming familiar with the culture and values of our church.
Level 2
Individuals serve in areas of higher visibility and influence. Requires:
- Three (3) Months of Regular Attendance
- Regular Background Checks
Level 3
Individuals who have been entrusted to serve with kids, youth, or vulnerable adults, helping to create a safe and secure environment. Requires:
- Three (3) Months of Regular Attendance
- Regular Background Checks
- Personal References
- Child Safety Training
Lifestyle
We encourage all volunteers to live a lifestyle that reflects biblical values and sets a positive example for others.
Social Media: Be mindful of what you post or share online, ensuring that it reflects biblical principles, aligns with the church’s mission, and fosters unity rather than contributing to divisiveness.
Alcohol and Drugs: As a volunteer at GRFirst, we ask that you refrain from consuming drugs and alcohol of any kind.
Cohabitation: We encourage all volunteers to pursue relationships that reflect God’s design and bring honor to Him by reserving cohabitation (living together) in a romantic relationship for marriage.
If you are currently cohabiting and have questions about how this may impact your volunteer role, we encourage you to talk with a pastor. These discussions are intended to provide guidance, clarity, and support as you grow in your walk with Christ.
Involvement and Investment
As a volunteer, your role is more than serving. It is about being an active part of our church community.
Church Attendance: We ask that volunteers attend weekly services, which fosters spiritual growth and connection with the church community.
Tithing: We encourage volunteers to practice tithing (giving 10% of their gross income) as an act of obedience and worship, recognizing God as the source of all blessings (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Character
As a volunteer, you are viewed as a representative of the church. Your actions, both inside and outside of the church, should align with Christ’s values and mission.
Honor and Respect: As a Christ-follower, we are called to honor and respect both believers and non-believers. As volunteers, we ask that you treat all pastors, staff, leaders, volunteers, and congregation members respectfully and kindly, in words and actions.
Serving with Excellence: We believe that serving God and others with excellence begins with faithfulness in the small things—including being on time. Punctuality reflects a heart of dedication, respect, and readiness to serve.
To learn more about our standards of conduct that are found in our Constitution and Bylaws, click here.
Living a lifestyle that reflects Christ helps you create a positive and welcoming environment where others can experience God’s love. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to serving with integrity.
We are committed to fostering an environment of grace, truth, and restoration. If your lifestyle choices are inconsistent with the church’s teachings and you need help aligning your lifestyle with biblical principles, we encourage you to reach out.
If you have questions or need further clarification, please email Pastor Rachel at rachelw@grfirst.org.