An Invitation to Serve:Volunteers Week 1-7June

Volunteers’ Week is a chance to celebrate the incredible people who give their time and gifts to serve others—and to reflect on how each of us might play a part.

In his recent sermon on membership, Tom reminded us that church life is about more than simply gathering together: “It’s not just about worshipping and learning, but also about serving, praying and giving generously. And as we step into the unique purposes God has for each of us, we become part of something bigger, with the church as the means through which His mission continues today.”

We see this lived out in so many ways among our church members. At this year’s APCM, Paul Goodridge—who has served on the sound team for over 30 years—offered a glimpse into a role many never see. In this vital ministry, he and the small team help set up and mix the sound so that worship, prayer and preaching can be heard clearly and meaningfully. But for Paul, it’s far more than a technical task:

“I found the perfect match for me… I connect to God through music… I’m able to engage in true worship even more while using the desk.”

What might seem like a behind-the-scenes role is actually a deeply creative and spiritual act of service—bringing together musicians, speakers and congregation in a shared moment of worship. As Paul also reflected, much of this work may go unnoticed, yet it carries lasting value as we “store treasures in heaven.”

And sometimes it’s the simplest acts of service that have the most profound impact. Barrie Mould, who has been offering lifts to Evergreen (our seniors’ outreach initiative) for over ten years, provides a practical but vital connection for older members of our community—enabling them to attend, belong and be encouraged:

“It’s often fun chatting… getting to know people… I now seem to know a significant range of older residents of Ashtead!”

What begins as a straightforward lift becomes something much richer: friendship, conversation, shared joy and a deep sense of belonging. It’s a reminder that offering even a small amount of time—just once or twice a month—can make a lasting difference in someone else’s life, as well as your own.

Both stories reflect a deeper truth: when we serve, we don’t just give—we receive. We grow in faith, build meaningful relationships and discover a deeper sense of purpose in being part of what God is doing in and through His church.

There are so many ways to serve—welcoming, prayer, children’s work, music, pastoral care, practical help, and more. Right now, we especially need volunteers to help with lifts for Evergreen—even once every few months would make a real difference. Our recently formed Chair Moving Team would also really benefit from a few more members to help spread the load.

As you read this, why not take a moment to pray and ask: Where might God be calling me to serve? Take a look at some of the opportunities available across our parish HERE and see where you might be called to serve.

No role is too small. Each act of service makes a difference—to others, to our church family and to God’s great plan.

We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to Paul, Barrie and everyone who gives their time and gifts to serve our church and community. Your faithfulness—seen and unseen—makes a real difference and is deeply appreciated.