The Church Is a Team—Are You on the Field?

Deacon Garo Balian

Two thousand years ago, in the early days of the Church, a serious challenge arose. The Church in Jerusalem was growing rapidly, and with growth came growing pains. Just fifty days after Jesus’ resurrection, the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles, just as He had promised. Filled with power, they boldly preached the message of the risen Christ, even among those who had once rejected Him.

But then came a problem. As the Christian community expanded, a group called the Hellenists, Greek-speaking Jews, began to feel overlooked. Their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. It was more than a complaint; it was a threat to the unity and witness of the young Church.

The apostles, led by the Holy Spirit, made a wise and Spirit-filled decision. They invited the community to choose seven faithful men, servants known as deacons, who would take on the ministry of care and service while the apostles remained focused on prayer and the preaching of the Word. This was not a rejection of responsibility. It was a recognition that the health of the Church depends on shared service, each according to their calling.

“The word of God continued to spread; the number of the disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem.” (Acts 6:7)

This moment teaches us something profound: a healthy church grows when everyone plays their part. As St. Paul later wrote: “There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit... To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:4,7)

The Armenian Church has always upheld the sacred role of ordained ministry, including bishops, priests, and deacons, who are called and consecrated to serve the people of God through the sacraments, teaching, and liturgy. But the life of the Church does not rest on the clergy alone. Every baptized believer is also called to live their faith actively, offering their time, gifts, and abilities for the glory of God and the good of the community.

Think of the Church as a football team. Not everyone can be the striker. Some defend, others pass, some guard the goal. Each position is different, but each one is essential. When everyone shows up, knows their role, and gives their best, the team succeeds.

Maybe I can bake—I join the Ladies’ Guild and help prepare meals.

Maybe I can sing—I join the choir and lift praises to heaven.

Maybe I’m called to serve at the altar—I assist during the Badarak and support the priest in the liturgy.                                                                                                                                 

Maybe I can serve—I help clean the sanctuary and assist during church events.

Maybe I’m good with technology—I help manage the church’s livestream or social media.

Maybe I’m welcoming—I greet people at the door and make them feel at home.

Maybe I love kids—I help teach Sunday School or assist with youth events.

Maybe I speak Armenian well—I help teach the language or read the Scriptures during services.

Maybe I’m handy—I offer my skills to help with small repairs and maintenance around the church.

Maybe I’m organized—I help plan events, coordinate volunteers, or serve on a committee.

Maybe I’m simply present—I show up, support, and encourage others with a willing heart.

Each of these acts, done with love and offered to Christ, becomes a holy offering, strengthening the Church and blessing the community.

Each one of us has something to offer, and when it’s done for Christ, it becomes holy.

“For just as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function...” (Romans 12:4)

God has placed something in each of us, something meant to bless others. The question isn’t if we’re gifted, but how we’re called to use it.

Whether your gift is service, music, hospitality, teaching, or quiet encouragement, offer it. Not for recognition, but for love. Not for status, but for Christ.

Because when each member takes part, the Church becomes what it was meant to be: a living, breathing body of faith, hope, and love.