Practical Tips for finding balance during the Busy days of Summer- dr. Ken Thomas, president of connect ministries

The summer is such a critical time for those of us serving in the church. It is a time to connect with children and families in new ways through Vacation Bible School, hosting day camps at your church, taking children and students to camp, executing family events, preparing for fall activities, and the list could go on and on. Quite honestly, the summer can be very demanding on a minister's schedule. In fact, it can be so demanding that your family barely sees you, and when they do see you - you are distracted and exhausted. Doesn't sound like a very fun summer - does it? 

For over 30 summers, I have spent my summers leading a ministry and serving churches. While I would not trade even one summer of those great summers of ministry - I have learned a few lessons that I would like to share with you that might help you find some balance during the busy days of summer. Let me share with you some practical tips to that might help you find balance this summer:

1) Combine Ministry with Family Time

I have always tried to include my wife and children with me during the summer months. If my work called for me to go on a trip, I would take them with me at my own expense. So, where appropriate, bring your family along to events or church activities. This helps integrate your roles and creates shared experiences without sacrificing connection. 

2) Build in Micro-Sabbaths

Even if full days off are hard to come by, take short, intentional breaks—a few hours to read, take a walk, or be with family. Plan an afternoon to do things as a family where there is no technology (plan a picnic, go fishing, plan a game night, etc). These small moments of rest can be spiritually and emotionally restorative.

3) Prioritize and Plan Ahead

Map out the summer calendar early, highlighting major events (like VBS, camps, mission trips, weddings). Block off intentional rest days around these high-demand periods to avoid burnout. Although your summer might already be planned, review that schedule and search for a way to block off days.

4) Empower and Delegate to Volunteers

I have found that in every church we serve, there is a common struggle to find volunteers - it is a real struggle.  But I have also discovered that in most churches, there are people who are very capable leaders who are just waiting for someone to ask them to lead. I can’t explain why they don’t just step forwar,d but when they are asked to volunteer - they step up and do a great job - Lean on these trusted lay leaders and volunteers to help organize and lead events. Empowering others not only eases your load but also strengthens the church community.

5) Protect One Personal Ritual or Routine

Don’t abandon your entire routine just because the summer schedule is “different” or because the pace is “faster.” Keep at least one daily or weekly routine sacred—whether it’s morning prayer, an evening walk, or family dinner. It grounds you amidst the busyness and signals that your personal life matters too.

There’s no perfect formula for achieving balance during the busy days of summer. But these small, intentional steps can help you protect what matters most while still embracing the joys and opportunities of summer ministry.

Let this be a season of both meaningful work and meaningful rest.

- Ken Thomas is the President of Connect Ministries, where he’s been serving since 2006. Passionate about helping churches reach new people with the Gospel, KT enjoys working every day to equip church leaders to do that effectively. Originally from Tifton, GA, KT holds a Bachelor’s in Education from the University of Georgia and a Master of Divinity and Doctorate of Education from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. KT and his wife of 30 years, Norma, have three children: Nate, Anna, and Blake. Together, KT and Norma lead a newly married small group at Watkinsville First Baptist Church.