Those flags are beautiful, but can I really do that in my church?

Article by Mellisa Wilson

Yes, if God is behind it, you can! He will lead you and direct you. Think about this process in the same way you would start any other type of ministry. Here are some simple steps to beginning a flag ministry in your church.

Pray, pray, pray!

Study the Word for scriptures on flags, the use of flags in worship, research the use of flags in history, society, etc.

Speak with your pastor. If there has been no teaching on flags, then ask about what the pastors’ vision is for flags. The pastor of the church must have a vision for flags. The pastor may need to do some teaching or direction on flags to be sensitive to those who may be skeptical or resistant. Make certain your pastor is on board and willing to cover and release you and those involved with flags before you step out. You must be willing to submit to the authority of your church, the pastor, elders, and spiritual leaders.

Work with the pastor and leadership team on the vision God has given for a flag ministry within the church. Flags can be used in praise and worship, outreach/evangelism, special services, ministry time. What direction will be most strategic for the vision of your church.

Seek out others who may be interested in participating. You can do this through word of mouth, announcements, or setting up a workshop with an experienced person in flag ministry. It is also helpful many times to allow a guest to come minister in a service as a safe way to expose the congregation to the art of flags in worship. This causes many to inquire about flags in their own church. I would encourage any involved, to get their own set of flags to be able to worship in private times and get a feel for different patterns, etc. to grow comfortable using the flags as an extension of their worship. Just as David praised God in the fields in front of only the sheep, we must praise God in our private worship with God. This prepares us for public ministry.

After this meeting, set up some follow up times to get together and worship, pray together, and prepare a piece for possible presentation in a special service, outreach, or ministry opportunity. Build up relationships in the team and pray that God reveals the hearts of those involved that are pointed toward God and exalting Him. Anyone who is involved in a ministry in which they may be up on the platform, or leading, must be looked upon as a leader and expected to walk in the standards expected by leadership in your church.

Begin to work on choreography for a piece to be used in a special outreach, Easter service, Christmas, children’s celebration, Kids Camp, Women’s ministry, Men’s ministry (Flags are a great way to get men involved in praise and worship) or wherever the Lord may lead. People tend to be more open in special services for something to be a little different. As the congregation becomes more exposed to flags in worship you may find more will want to be involved and the ministry will expand.