2 minute read
Our Parish Office Volunteers Evangelizing in Our Parish as The “First Greeters
Our parish office volunteers do much more than answer the phone or help with parish mailings. They can hear the voice of Christ in those seeking welcome and help — and they return that voice of Christ through their loving care.
Karen Bisges wears multiple hats as the Parish Office Assistant, and assistant to the Coordinator of Evangelization, as well as to the parish Communications Coordinator. She coordinates the office volunteers in their multiple tasks.
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“We have a pretty good team,” she says.
The COVID-19 restrictions brought about some changes in the office, regarding the number of volunteers being able to work. Nevertheless, their dedication and eagerness to help has meant they have been able to get the necessary work done.
The volunteers are often the first face parish visitors see when they walk in the door.
“The volunteers offer them a beverage, and try to see what their needs are,” Karen says. “If they need a priest, or want to arrange a Mass intention, any other daily tasks, they take care of it.”
Many of the volunteers also help Karen fold the liturgy aid materials for the weekend Masses.
“That’s one of the larger tasks, preparing for the weekend,” Karen says. “Other volunteers help with other projects, like mailings to parishioners. We need their help.”
There also are times when calls come in for help with food, gasoline money, and other pressing needs. Those seeking help find they are receiving the loving care of Christ through the volunteers’ help.
Through their efforts, the volunteers also play a large role in providing evangelization to visitors or callers who are not Catholic. Whether the request is for some kind of assistance, or just arranging a tour of our church, they are treated with warm, welcoming hospitality. Through our volunteers’ efforts, the hearts and minds of those seeking help are more receptive to learning more about our Catholic faith.
“People are more open to what you say,” Karen says. “They are open to learning more about Catholicism and Christ. Our volunteers help with evangelization by being that first greeter, that first responder to their questions. When people call for assistance, we want the volunteers to be open to them about their needs. By having a warm attitude, it truly changes things. People will come in and we’ll pray with them and even go to Mass with them. By offering a better reception to the community of Stillwater, they will see us in a better light and visit us more.”
