FROM THE MINISTRY TEAM

Heather and I have been on another of our trips visiting cathedrals/minsters around the country. As I write this we have just returned from visiting Peterborough, Lincoln, Grantham and Southwell. We have twenty in our Pilgrims Passports now and hopefully we can continue to see these glorious places of worship.

Each one of the churches we visit it never ceases to amaze us the number of people who keep the wheels in motion to ensure visitors are made welcome, the beautiful floral arrangements, the greeting at the door, the questions answered and so, so much more. These people I refer to are the volunteers of course. Yes, some positions are paid but hundreds of them give their time willingly.The word ‘volunteer’ comes from the Latin word ‘voluntarius’ meaning ‘of one’s free will’. I think about this every time see such dedication to God which took me to the Bible in a ‘search’ for volunteers. Jesus himself was the prime example of willing service by His life and ministry, stating, ‘For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve andto give His life as a ransom for many’. Paul often relied on the voluntary support of fellow believers for his missionary work.Galatians 6: 9, 10 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.1 Peter 4: 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. Proverbs 11: 25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.These are just a few!Volunteering is a joyful way for us to practice service in our communities - it is about giving our time and talents willingly to help others which is a reflection of the love that God shows us ever day. We all have unique talents and abilities that God has blessed us with whether it is our time, skills, resources, using these for the benefit of others brings e sense of fulfillmentand joy.Serving others is an opportunity for us to work hand in hand with fellowship and when we unite our efforts not only do we share our experiences we will deepen our relationships and faith in God.Volunteers are not paid - not because they are worthless but because they are priceless!

Hazel Chittock - Lay Elder