The “I” in Operation IDEA stands for Invite.  The following are some steps to take when inviting someone to take part in an Operation IDEA event.

• Step One:  Pray.
• Step Two:  Boldly look for the brightest and best among us and invite them to consider if God is calling them to serve as a leader in the church.  Look in your mission center, outdoor ministries, campus ministries and your own families and communities.
• Step Three:  Don’t underestimate your personal impact.  There are persons who respect you, look up to you and will listen to what you say. When you identify a person with special gifts, raise what you see with him or her.
• Step Four:  Consider who could help you make the invitation.  It’s OK to ‘gang up’ on the prospect.
• Step Five:  Build a relationship with those you invite, and keep in touch with them as they discern how God is calling them.
• Step Six:  Let people know how exciting it is to serve in Christ’s church. Excitement rubs off!  Talk about the benefits of being involved in ministry.  There are many, both tangible and intangible.
• Above all, go ahead and act!