In a post last week I talked about students who are struggling this time of year because, as social scenes are beginning to solidify, they are finding themselves unexpectedly on the outside looking in.

I suggested that, as ministers and ministries, we have a unique and important opportunity here. We need to create a hospitable place where these students — ALL students, really — can belong and be known.

But this kind of culture doesn’t just magically happen within our ministry contexts. It takes intention. It takes work.

So here are four ways I think we can help to create a culture of inclusivity within our ministries:

1. Prioritize it

Creating a culture of inclusivity has to become a priority to YOU and your ministry.

Most ministries, by default, become focused internally not long after they’re formed. The underlying assumption is that everyone who wants to belong is here (or they know where to find us) — so we can move forward with connecting and growing as a new community.

But as a leader within that ministry, we need to be the ones who constantly “beat the drum” of inclusion. We need to make sure that we always have one eye focused externally, even as we go about growing as a community internally.

Our students need to hear us consistently talking about how we can create space for new people to come in, connect, and belong.

2. Model it

We need to do more than just talk about it.

We need to model it.

Our students and fellow leaders need to see us consistently reaching out to others.

It can be all to easy to focus our attention on those who have already committed themselves to being involved with our ministry. And while this is an important piece of our work, we cannot neglect the piece that requires that we seek out those who are not a part of our ministry.

Our students will take on the priorities we model — which will dramatically shape our ministries on campus.

3. Identify your “Includers”

Did you know that including others is actually an identifiable strength in some people?

These folks are naturally wired to be inclusive. They are constantly looking for, and aware of, the “outsider” — that person standing off at the edge of the group — and once found, they take action towards including them.

These individuals have an empathetic heart towards those who might feel left out — so they reach out — because they can’t help themselves.

If we can identify the students within our ministries who have this gift, and then empower them to help lead the charge in this area, we will see lots of good fruit as a result.

4. Challenge your ministry

Finally, being inclusive should not be relegated to just the leaders or naturally inclusive students, but should become a part of the mindset of EVERYONE within our ministries.

Jesus sought ought those who lived on the outskirts. Those who were marginalized. Those who didn’t fit in or belong.

We need to challenge everyone involved with our ministries to be a part of creating a culture of inclusion. We cannot relegate it to a few. This needs to become an ALL HANDS ON DECK element of our ministry — if it’s not already.

SO, those are four steps I offer towards becoming a more inclusive ministry.

What would you add to this list?

What have you seen work with regards to creating a more inclusive culture within your ministry?

How have you seen students embrace the challenge of helping to create this kind of environment?