VolunteerSpot loves to highlight the good works of our users around the country. Our spotlight today shines on Father James Thibodeaux of St. Peter's Episcopal Parish in Seattle, Washington.
Please tell us about the volunteer needs at your church.
St. Peter’s Episcopal Parish, like many volunteer organizations, has seemingly infinite possibilities for volunteers and their ideas. Block parties, neighborhood litter and graffiti cleanup, family nights, BBQ’s, Sukiyaki take-outs, family camp and worship are just a few activities in our lineup. New ideas spring up all the time, but organization and volunteer buy-in are key to actually making things happen around here. VolunteerSpot has been helping us with our organization and through its services, volunteers have one more simple way to be a part of what’s happening at St. Peter’s, Seattle.
How did you get started as a volunteer leader?
In church lingo we talk about a “call” to ministry. The experience looks different for every person, but it always boils down to an irrefutable, irresistible sense that God wants something of you. People often put it off, but it never seems to go away! For me, I felt God calling me to the professional ministry when I was 5. It took 25 years for me to become a priest (not many ordain 5 year olds!), but during that whole time of education and training the “call” never changed or disappeared.
What’s one piece of advice you have for ministry volunteers or their leaders out there?
St. Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.” What we do and who we are speaks more about our mission than anything we say or put in print. My prayer for the volunteers of St. Peter’s and for every volunteer is that we all live out our various calls to serve in our actions first, then through our words. And because it takes people to live out a mission, remember to treat your fellow volunteers with kindness and love. As St. Paul says (paraphrased), “compete against one another in showing honor to each other.”
Why did you decide to use VolunteerSpot?
We needed something simple, easy, inexpensive, and easily acquired by our volunteers. VolunteerSpot required no downloads, charged no fees, and provided a clear and easy interface for both coordinators and volunteers.
Anything else you’d like our readers to know about your organization or volunteering?
Whether you’re a long time Seattle resident, recently moved to the area, or are just passing through, you are welcome to be a part of St. Peter’s activities. Please see our website www.stpeterseattle.org or call (206) 323-5250 for opportunities to grow, encounter God, and make a difference in our world!
Comments