His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that the nature of successful ministry is continuous growth. He cites examples from the Holy Scripture to affirm that the kingdom of God is like a seed that grows by itself, and that ministry must show steady growth both in the number of those served and in the quality of spiritual life.

Growth of the servant
The true servant grows in his love for God, in his knowledge, and in his service work. This growth may reach partial or full consecration of the servant’s life to the Lord, increasing his faithfulness and holy zeal for Christ.

Growth of the served
The fruits of ministry appear in the hearts of those served: improvement in spiritual life, increased seeking (confession) and communion, and better conduct within the family and the community.

Growth of the ministry and institution
Ministry must grow in terms of tools, means, and activities, and in geographic expansion — the church serves the surrounding neighborhood and nearby cities, and seeks to reach the districts where there are no churches.

Zeal and expansion
The address urges a holy zeal in ministry, and that ministry should not be confined to one class or place, but that the servant’s influence should extend to the family, university, workplace, and neighbors, and His Holiness Pope Shenouda III cites examples of evangelism and writings that extend ministry to many lands.

Planning and care
He recommends making a map for ministry of each area: streets, children, youth, families, workers — so that no one remains neglected, and calls for seeking the lost and caring for the needy.

Sacrifices and commitment
Growth is linked to the energy given to the Lord, the time and effort expended; the growing servant offers himself and his giving to serve others and his spiritual influence on those he meets increases.

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