Twenty years ago I worked in human relations in a non-profit agency for six years. During those tenures I volunteered in local church ministry. I led students, taught classes, and chaperoned youth events. Then I spent half a dozen years on a church staff as a youth pastor. From 1997 to 2000 I worked in the marketplace in retail management. Those years were fulfilling years, but they also reminded me of the tremendous contribution our volunteers make.
For the past nine years I've served on the senior management team at Granger as pastor of connections. My entire week is given to serving the church's mission to reach and disciple. I've empowered volunteers. I've trained volunteers. I've celebrated volunteers. Volunteers who give time, energy, and talent for the cause of Christ.
So, a couple weekends ago I strapped a radio to my belt, slipped a headset on and served in the volunteer role of "point person" for our weekend services. I volunteered.
Our point persons run command central for the weekend. They are the communication hub for coordinating needs and requests from children's ministry, ushers, greeters, traffic team and more. They fulfill an enormously responsible role every weekend... as volunteers.
Here are some observations about my volunteer weekend:
- I walked miles around the church campus. I went home Saturday night with a blister on my left heel. Band-aid on Sunday.
- I handled more radio calls than a Bell operator on a party line in 1957 (I have no idea what that means. I just know the radio on my belt kept the headset chirping with activity.).
- People will let you know what you're supposed to do if you don't.
- Timing matters.
- Prompt timing matters.
- People will let you know what you're supposed to do if your timing isn't prompt.
- I touched more volunteers and staff than I ever do when I'm merely roaming hallways and being "present."
- Our volunteers are phenomenal. They give and give and give. And smile all the while.
- People really do create the "wow."
- When volunteers are empowered, they will lead, sacrifice, serve, and make a profound difference with their lives.
- It was a ton of fun!
I will "volunteer" again in the role of "point person." I'll wear different shoes, but I will volunteer again.
