On not being a volunteer
We had a celebration at our church this morning. In the event formerly known as 'Volunteers Day' we invited everyone who contributes to the life and ministry of Harlow Salvation Army, to come to a service and lunch. It was great. We had seven people who had never been to worship before. But it was a tricky one. The issue of people not wanting to be known as 'Volunteers' led to the re-naming of The Salvation Army. I wanted everyone to know they were appreciated. The bandsman who helped plant the corps 59 years ago, The person who's been helping at lunch club for 4 weeks. The lady from the charity shop. The grandchildren who were remembering a terrible anniversary. The commissioned, the warranted, the called, the enrolled, the unravelled, the attenders, the worshippers. Those who serve because of faith. Those who act because they want to make a difference. All coming together in the beautiful mess that is church. A church that wouldn...