Pastor Karyn really had a system down for making root beer floats during the Volunteer Appreciation Picnic this summer. She lined up the glasses, put a little bit root beer in the bottom, added a scoop of ice cream and then topped it off with more root beer. It was beautiful to watch her with such efficiency and the those waiting in anticipation for such goodness. It was a blessing and joy to thank our volunteers at the picnic, watching them enjoy the wonderful food and delicious root beer floats.

I asked our volunteers why they keep volunteering and it was very insightful, but not surprising to learn the answers. Some answered, “It’s fun,” others, “I like to help out,” while still more said, “It makes me feel good”. The majority said, “The people,” or “Meeting people,” which really doesn’t surprise me at all. Volunteering at church is the best way to meet people and get to know others. There are so many ways to volunteer at church: on Sundays, Wednesdays, during the day, and for special events. Families can volunteer together through ushering, greeting, serving coffee among many other things. There are one time commitments, weekly or yearly commitments, all depending on your availability. We have a new tool to help people sign up to help with worship, it’s called “Sign Up Genius.” It’s easy to use and understand. I will be sending links via e-mails when help is needed, so that you can sign up right away and not have to wait for Sunday morning to sign up at the Connecting Point table. If we don’t have your e-mail address or if it has changed recently, give the church a call at 608.783.2236 or email the church at office@firstlu.org to let us know. We will be using Sign up Genius starting in September, so visit the website at http://www.signupgenius.com and watch for links in your e-mail.

We will still have the sign up sheet at the Connecting Point table and continue to pass them around during worship, but signing up on line is the most efficient way for everyone. When you sign up on line you will get a notice via e-mail to remind you of when you serve. If you need help finding a place to volunteer at church or elsewhere, I can help you with that. We have hand outs and I will love to help you find your place to serve. If you have any question feel free to give me a call at church 608.783.2236 , e-mail me at kathryn@firstlu.org or talk to me after worship on Sundays or Wednesdays or any time at church. I would love to help you find your place!