SHAPE Spiritual Gifts Assessment

For we are all God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
--Ephesians 2:10

I have been in a lot of ministries at Palmer Church: Sunday School teacher, Palmer newsletter editor, communications team for the capital campaign, choir parent volunteer. Most of my choices have been made on the basis of my stage in life, or my child's stage of development, or my professional skills, giving of my time and talent in those areas where my family is invested, or in ways that were comfortable for me.

But ministry is about my own spiritual development as much as it is about sharing the love of Christ with others. When I took a SHAPE survey several years ago, I discovered gifts I really didn't know I had, such as the gift of mercy. I served for a time on the Funeral Guild and put that gift to good use. It seemed a little odd, really, liking the Funeral Guild, but I found it so rewarding. Because I could empathize with the suffering of those who had very recently survived the loss of a loved one, respond to them in ways that reflect Christ's love, and help organize the funeral service itself (my other gift is for administration), I was able to relieve some stress for the families. I served as reader or acolyte in many services and learned to appreciate the hope and beauty of our funeral liturgy. I got to see the Palmer community galvanize around a need and create in a few days' time a complete worship service and reception.

The survey itself was a great exercise but the consultation with the SHAPE ministry leader was what gave me the understanding I needed to turn them into ministry. And now, a few years later, I am exploring new areas of ministry that I would not have considered before.

Consider a SHAPE survey and consultation, and see where it takes you. Contact Ross Heinsohn at Rheinsohn@palmerchurch.org.