As the holiday season approaches, many look for meaningful ways to give back to their communities and spread joy. Pastor Dino Rizzo, a 35-year ministry veteran and founder of Servolution, offers practical and heartfelt ways for believers to serve those around them. Known for his decades of leadership at Healing Place Church and now as the President of ARC (Association of Related Churches), Rizzo has spent his life inspiring acts of kindness and community service. In his words, “Serving others isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are called to be.”
Why Serving Matters During the Holidays
The holidays can be a time of joy and togetherness, but they can also amplify feelings of loneliness and struggle for many. “The true essence of the holiday season is found in giving, not receiving,” says Dino Rizzo. “When we serve, we share love in a tangible way that reflects the heart of Christ.” Whether through grand gestures or small acts of kindness, the impact on both the giver and receiver is profound.
Servolution: Ideas to Get Started
Through Servolution, Dino Rizzo has equipped countless churches and individuals with ideas and tools to serve their communities effectively. This library is filled with practical ways to demonstrate the love of Jesus and bring joy to those in need. Below are some standout examples of holiday outreach ideas inspired by Servolution’s initiatives.
A great way to serve parents who may be struggling financially is to host a Free Christmas Shopping Mall at your church or community center. Invite parents to come and personally select and wrap gifts for their children, enjoy holiday treats, hear Christmas carols, and participate in games. The event can also include a prayer station and an opportunity to share the Gospel message. This experience not only provides practical support but creates a moment of dignity and joy for families in need.
One heartwarming idea from iTown Church involves hosting a Build-A-Bear workshop, where volunteers assemble custom bears to be delivered to children spending Christmas in the hospital. This gesture goes beyond giving a toy—it brings comfort and warmth to young patients who may be facing a difficult holiday season.
For communities with active youth, consider organizing an event like Christmas at the Skate Park. Elevate Church in Texas successfully brought kids together to skate, scoot, and ride while providing toys, prizes, and new shoes. Warm cocoa and snow activities added a festive touch, turning an ordinary space into a winter wonderland and a place of community connection.
A simple yet impactful outreach idea is to set up a station for free gift wrapping in busy shopping areas. Pass out wrapping paper, tape, and even bows to shoppers, creating a moment of relief and kindness during what can be a hectic season. This small act reminds people that they are seen and valued, embodying the spirit of giving.
How to Get Involved
Serving doesn’t have to be complicated or resource-intensive. Servolution emphasizes that even small acts of service can lead to life-changing moments. Dino Rizzo encourages churches and individuals to look around their communities for opportunities to serve. “Life-change begins with one simple idea and a random act of kindness,” he shares.
For those seeking more inspiration, the Servolution website offers a treasure trove of ideas and testimonies from churches and leaders who have witnessed the transformative power of serving. This holiday season, let’s all take a moment to reflect on how we can bring light to others through simple, heartfelt acts of service.
By embracing Dino Rizzo’s call to action, you’re not just celebrating the holidays; you’re embodying their true meaning—spreading hope, joy, and the love of Jesus.
About Dino Rizzo
Dino Rizzo, a 35-year ministry veteran, co-founded Healing Place Church with his wife, DeLynn, where he served as senior pastor for two decades. Through his passion for inspiring believers to serve their communities, Dino Rizzo founded Servolution and authored “Serve Your City.” Rizzo serves as the President of ARC (Association of Related Churches), which has planted more than 1100 churches worldwide, and is on the Senior Leadership Team at Church of the Highlands.
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