Book excerpt: A language ministry can be one of the most important services your church offers to your community. It combines outreach, diaconal care, and educational ministries. It includes both literacy and ESL (English as a Second Language) and helps people improve their reading, writing, and speaking skills.It's easy to get started! All you need is a place to meet, volunteer tutors, and resources like Open Door Books.Members of the church and/or community serve as literacy tutors, usually working one-on-one or in small groups with people who are unable to read well.Open Door Books are designed especially for adults who are just learning to read and for those who are learning English as a second language. Written at a third- to fifth-grade reading level, they're essential for language ministries or literacy programs.Your church can reach out to people who are learning to speak and read English. This handbook shows you step-by-step how to start an English as a Second Language (ESL) program for refugees, immigrants in your community, students from other countries, and others.