Profile of a Volunteer

There is a lady, I'll call Mrs. Doe,  at my church who volunteers her time to teaching catechism, reading at mass, and coordinating an entire bereavement committee. My church parish has many elderly families, and Mrs. Doe decided that something needed to be done for families upon the death of a loved one. Although family and friends usually prepare food for funerals, Mrs. Doe felt that this was one less thing that a family needed to worry about. She organized a committee consisting of groups of ladies that prepare food for families in our church parish for the day of the funeral. I am in one of the groups where I am in charge of a vegetable. Other ladies in my group are in charge of desserts, salads, etc. The church stepped in and now donates a ham to each family.

Mrs. Doe's work has directly impacted families in our church parish at difficult times in their lives. Although organizing this committee was not mandatory, she saw a need in families lives and acted on what she observed. She also called on others to give of themselves which is a rewarding experience.

What touches me most about Mrs. Doe's work is that she herself is an elderly person. Her work proved to me that you are never to old to start something new. She had a vision, and she went to our pastor and presented the idea to him. Not only did she advocate for an issue, but she also took it upon herself to coordinate the committee and do the work. I admire her for stepping up and not feeling as though her ideas were not valid. Her work has taught me that if I have an idea, I need to act on it.

So many times over the years, I have thought about a parenting education class within my church parish. Parents may be reluctant to attend a public class, but may feel more comfortable within their church community. As I type this profile of Mrs. Doe, I am beginning to think I may need to follow her lead, and talk to my pastor about this type of class.