No really, we mean it. A huge, amazing thank you! This week is Volunteers’ Week and we want to take this opportunity to thank you for all that you do. We’ve even made you a cake. I’ve no idea how we’re going to get it through the wifi, but I’m sure we’ll find a way.
Every week, thousands of volunteers make a difference in the lives of children and young people across the Diocese, joining in with the tens of thousands of volunteers across the country and the hundreds of thousands, if not millions of volunteers around the world. Children’s and youth work in the Church would not happen without you.
So, why you do it? Is it because you want to tell the next generation of children the great and glorious deeds of the Lord? Is it because you were greatly influenced by a children’s or youth worker when you were younger and you wanted to make sure others had the same guidance and help? It might even be because you agreed to fill a gap for a few weeks, 20 years ago, and your still doing it today. Whatever the reason, you are making a huge difference in the lives of children and young people.
For some children and young people, a church group might be the only place where someone takes an interest in them. For others, church groups represent a place to develop an identity for themselves, rather than being someone else’s daughter or son. Some find room to ask questions and wrestle with difficult subjects, while others find acceptance and love. There are those who come need firm boundaries and those who appreciate the freedom they get in a group.
As volunteers in Christian children’s and youth work, we try to fill all these requirements, and more, as a way of showing God’s love to those who are part of our community. And it’s not easy. Safeguarding and behavioural issues can cloud our vision, struggles with other leaders or members of the congregation might colour our view of volunteering in the church. Or simply the conditions many children have to put up with can grieve our hearts so greatly that we wonder how on earth we can help.
But hear this. You are helping. You are making such a difference that I couldn’t possibly scratch the surface of the impact you’re having. You may not realise it here and now, but God is working through you powerfully. We’re not just saying in because it’s Volunteers’ Week, but because it’s true. Your ministry is amazing.
Now about that cake. It’s really not going to fit down the fibre-optic cables. Sorry… So you… er… won’t mind if I… er… have a slice?
Alex Taylor is Children’s Ministry Trainer for the Diocese of London and is an overenthusiastic baker.