In a generation hungry for truth and transformation, God is raising voices — ministers, mentors, teachers — to equip His people for purpose. At The Kingdom Tribe, we believe that how we receive and host those voices matters deeply and this guide is to help share what God has laid in my heart concerning this.
Whether you’re a church planning your annual conference, a youth ministry inviting a guest speaker, or a mission team preparing to receive a mentor, the way you honour the vessel directly impacts the flow of virtue. Hosting a speaker isn’t just logistics — it’s ministry.
Here’s a practical and spiritual guide to booking and caring for guest ministers. It’s my sincere hope and prayer that it blesses your next engagement and empowers you to serve God’s servants well.
1. Plan with Purpose and Honour
When you invite someone to minister, you’re not just filling a slot — you’re welcoming a messenger of God. Treat every invitation with godly intentionality.
Budgeting for Impact
God’s Word teaches that the laborer is worthy of their wages (Luke 10:7). As such, we encourage churches and ministries to budget intentionally for the speaker. Keep in mind that sometimes, a team may accompany the minister. In light of that, always ask to know if they’re coming alone, with their spouse and/or with a team.
Luke 10:7 (KJV): “…for the labourer is worthy of his hire…”
- Travel: Communicate clearly whether you will book flights/transport or reimburse the speaker. Cover any additional travel costs where necessary.
- Accommodation: Offer a quiet, private space where your guest(s) can rest, reflect, and prepare. Shared accommodation should only be offered with clarity and consent.
- Honorarium: While no servant of God should be in ministry for money, appreciation through honorariums speaks volumes. The amount may vary, but the principle remains: bless generously as you’ve been blessed. Kindly note that the honorarium given is not a reflection of the grace of God on the speaker but a testament to your heart of appreciation.
💡 Tip: An honorarium is not payment for a service, but a seed of honour. If your ministry cannot provide one, have an open conversation — many ministers are still willing to go where the Spirit leads.
2. Communicate Early, Clearly, and Thoughtfully
Great experiences begin with great communication. From the moment you extend an invitation, strive to be clear, respectful, and detailed.
Include Key Details Upfront:
- Event dates, location, and expected audience
- Number of sessions or messages
- Proposed honorarium and logistics – note that some ministers may not entertain this discussion. If so, give as God leads you.
- Theme, topic, or specific areas of ministry emphasis
- Your ministry’s website or social handles for context
As you follow up:
- Share dress code (especially for outdoor or themed events), if any.
- Outline tech expectations (e.g., lapel mic, slides, music)
- Provide a point person for questions or on-site hosting
This level of care frees ministers to focus on their assignment, not the admin.
3. Host with Intentional Hospitality
In many cultures, hospitality is a spiritual act — and the same applies here. Whether the minister is traveling across the world or across the city, your hospitality can refresh their soul.
Assign a Host or Liaison
Designate someone from your team to care for the minister(s) during the event — helping with logistics, meal coordination, and downtime. This relieves stress and builds connection.
Give Meaningful Gifts
Ministers don’t need grand gestures, but thoughtful tokens can deeply encourage:
- A handwritten note or prayer from the team
- Healthy snacks or water in their hotel room
- A simple gift, book, etc.
4. Keep Prayer at the Center
Above all, cover everything in prayer. A well-planned event without God’s presence is just a gathering. Here’s how you can intercede and plan meaningfully:
- Pray for the speaker’s preparation and journey
- Intercede for hearts to be ready and receptive
- Ask God for fresh revelation, healing, and transformation
Your prayers create an atmosphere where the Spirit moves freely.
Final Thoughts: Honour Unlocks Heaven
We’ve seen firsthand what happens when ministries receive God’s messengers with honour. The Word flows richly. Lives shift. And heaven partners with earth to bring spectacular transformation.
If you’ve been entrusted with the responsibility of hosting or inviting a speaker, embrace it as holy work. Don’t just prepare the platform — prepare your heart, your team, and your house.
To every minister reading this: Your voice matters. Your calling is sacred. And we pray that everywhere you go, you’ll be received in love, hosted with honour, and covered in prayer.
Written with love from The Kingdom Tribe
Empowering voices. Equipping generations. Exalting Jesus.
