The lecture discusses that successful service is a growing service, and that the growth of service appears in its effect, depth, and spiritual fruits. Growth in service is like a seed sown that produces grass and gives an ear full of wheat, as the early church witnessed continuous increase from twelve to hundreds of branches and adherents.

Aspects of growth

1. Quantitative growth: increase in the number of those served, increase of branches, growth of class sessions, and increases in communion and confession.

2. Qualitative (spiritual) growth: growth in their spiritual life and the application of information in behavior, some reaching holiness or partial or full consecration.

Tools and areas of growth

• Spiritual and educational preparation for servants so that the number of speakers and those able to serve in meetings and conferences increases.

• Organizing the service: making maps of neighborhoods, villages and cities and knowing the Christians present, and not limiting the work to a narrow local circle.

• Moving to new neighborhoods, cities and villages that need the service before others occupy them.

Obstacles to growth

• Internal disputes and conflicts between servants or with the priests that hinder growth and attract others to seize souls.

• Preoccupation with buildings and money without spending on serving the needy or preparing servants.

• Lack of multiplication of consecrated servants and weakness in training and experience.

Practical and spiritual call

• Examine the reality of the branch: number of those served, number of servants, growth of branches, service activities, and the missing. Conduct a practical survey to determine needs and capabilities.

• Strive in love for the kingdom: the servant who loves the kingdom seeks it everywhere and continuously strives for the salvation of souls.

• Necessity of seriousness in service: meekness is not lethargy, rather it must be accompanied by energy and effective spiritual movement.

Coptic Orthodox spiritual summary
Growth in service is a sign of the Holy Spirit’s work among people and the fruits of the kingdom of God. Servants must strive for consecration, prayer, and wisdom in management, and be filled with love for the kingdom so that the service spreads and yields true salvation in the church and society.

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