Volunteer Connections is a new Resurrection Parish ministry focused on connecting those who can help with those in need. At times in our lives, all of us need help. We are a parish family and should be there for each other.
The ministry was conceived by Sally Egland, former parish business manager. After meeting with a group to discuss a role with an outreach service forming at the archdiocese for senior priests, she thought, why not at Resurrection for all parishioners?
“During my career as a manager at Nike, I hired a former professional baseball player who had been forced to retire early due to an injury,” says Sally. “After a few months, I called him into my office to provide feedback on his performance; he needed improvement as a ‘team player.’ He argued he was first to volunteer, but as we discussed further, being a good team player means that you will ask others for help when needed, which is something he had not done.”
“This is a valuable lesson for us all. Most people are more than willing to help others, but do we ever ask others for help?”
As a stewardship parish, “Service” is one of our four pillars. Parishioners are encouraged to share their time and talents with others. Volunteer help can be requested by ministries, staff members, parishioners and others.
“I would encourage each of us to be a good team/family member and reach out when you could use some help,” says Sally. These might include:
- Maybe you have always wanted to learn to knit, play chess, make a pie or build a bird house. I know there are parishioners who can teach you.
- Maybe you are exploring career options and want some advice. I bet there are people within our parish who would be willing to meet and provide mentoring.
- Maybe you are new to the area and are looking for Foster Grandparents or friends with similar interests. I bet you would have people lined up for the role.
- Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one. You are not alone. There are others within the parish who have been there and could provide a willing ear.
- Maybe you are “aging in place” and occasionally need help with raking leaves, walking your dog, doing minor repairs or just want a friendly visitor on a regular basis. We can help.
Any parishioner can complete a Volunteer Request Form (linked here and on the new Volunteer Connections Ministry page on the parish website).
And, each of us has gifts and talents that should be shared. Please be sure to check the Volunteer Connections ministry page regularly for current volunteer opportunities and respond to help. Most are one-time or occasional opportunities for adults, teens and families.
“If you have suggestions or ideas for this new ministry or a talent you would like share, I would love to hear from you. Please pray for the ministry’s success and that each of us responds to the call to be good stewards.”
For further information, please contact Sally Egland, Outreach Coordinator, at outreach@rcparish.org or 503-482-6877.