03/06/2026
Reflection from Lorraine
Hello Everyone,
This week from the 1st of June until the 7th of June we celebrate the tremendous contribution made by volunteers to our charities and communities.
This week is volunteers week when we take the opportunity to say thank you to everyone who gives of their time and talent to help others.
Many volunteers would say they don't need thanks but it is good to let someone know they are appreciated and that they make a difference to so many lives.
I first began working with volunteers when I managed charity retail shops for Barnardo's Children's Charity.
We had volunteers of all ages from young people volunteering as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award to people who had retired many years ago but still enjoyed getting out, having a routine and through their efforts raising money for a good cause.
We had a lovely lady who was well into her eighties and still volunteering not only in the shop but with various organisations and in her local church.
Although she was what most people would consider advanced in years she would say how she was going to visit some " Old People" obviously not considering herself to be in that category at all !!
The customers loved her and she could say things to customers that no-one else could say such as " Is this dress for you, I didn't think so, it wouldn't fit !!"
She was a legend and a woman who lived out her faith in service to others.
Young people would volunteer to gain work experience and it was always good to hear how their careers had progressed.
I often see one of my volunteers who now works in the shop in Gartnavel Hospital and always remembers the skills she acquired in charity retail.
Many who were mentored then go on to mentor others as they know what it's like to be a young person starting out in the workplace.
The disciples were mentored by Jesus and were the original volunteers going forward in his name to spread The Gospel, fired up by The Holy Spirit.
They would encourage others to join them in the journey, to volunteer to be part of something greater than they could be alone.
To build on the firm foundation Jesus had provided.
1 Corinthians : 3/9
For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building.
Many people of all ages volunteer in our churches today, they build relationships with their community and with each other.
They express their Christian calling in various ways by providing food and clothing, a listening ear and a helping hand.
Titus 3:14 :
And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.
Volunteers never ask for praise but are more than willing to participate in improving the lives of others, showing care and compassion, often following the example of those who have inspired them with their selfless service.
Working, Worshipping, Welcoming in the name of the Lord who calls us all to be part of his plan, valuable volunteers who make great things happen.
Ephesians 2:10 GNT:
God has made us what we are, and in our union with Christ Jesus he has created us for a life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do.
Love and Blessings to you all
Lorraine
Pastoral Assistant.
Due to attending a conference the next Reflection will be on Thursday 2nd July.
