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Have you ever made a Friendship Cake? In Lynne Hinton’s novel Friendship Cake, a group of women in a church deepen their faith and friendships through the simple act of baking and sharing recipes. Each ingredient in the cake is carefully chosen and blended to create something wonderful. A church’s volunteer culture is much the same—each person who gives their time and talents is an essential ingredient in the beautiful work God is doing through our congregation.

One of the characters in the book reflects, “Some things take time. Friendships, love, trust, forgiveness. But in the end, if you wait, if you are patient, you will see how the blending of all these things makes something stronger and richer, something you can’t imagine at the start.”

The same is true for volunteering. It takes time, commitment, and patience. But when we serve together, relationships grow, faith deepens, and God does more than we could ever imagine.

Recently, Rev. Kate May from Centenary UMC in Winston-Salem led a volunteer recruitment workshop at our church, and I’d like to share some of her thoughts. We want to create and maintain a strong volunteer culture at Broad Street UMC—one where people feel valued, connected, and spiritually nurtured in their service.

Our mission at Broad Street UMC is simple but powerful: “We are committed to KNOW and SHARE the life-changing LOVE of Jesus Christ.”

Volunteering is one of the most tangible ways we live out this mission. When we serve, we come to know Christ more deeply and share His love with others in ways that truly change lives—both theirs and ours.

So much of volunteering is heart work. We respond more deeply to a vision than to a list of responsibilities. That’s why, at Broad Street UMC, we want every volunteer to see how their service connects to the bigger picture of our mission. Whether it’s teaching children, welcoming guests, preparing meals, or working behind the scenes, every act of service is an opportunity to show Jesus to others.

One of the most unique aspects of volunteering at Broad Street UMC is that it’s not just about helping others—it’s about growing in your own faith at the same time. Serving provides a chance to experience God’s love in action, to be transformed while helping transform the lives of others.

This is especially true in our children’s and youth ministries, where consistency makes all the difference. Our youngest disciples need familiar faces, trusted relationships, and a sense of stability. Whether through paid staff or dedicated volunteers, children thrive when they know they are valued and loved by the same caring people each week. But the vision of children’s ministry goes beyond just providing care—it’s about shaping their spiritual foundation, helping them grow in faith, and showing them the love of Christ.

As United Methodists, we vow to support the church with our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. So, let me ask: Where do you volunteer? What do you love to do? Where can you serve?  If you’ve never stepped into a volunteer role, I invite you to taste and see what it’s all about.

One way to get involved is by serving just once, with no long-term commitment required. Come alongside someone, observe, participate, and see if it’s something that fills your heart. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.

For those who have already been faithfully serving, we are working on ways to keep your experience fresh and fulfilling. We encourage volunteers to rotate roles, ensuring that both you and the ministry continue to grow.

One exciting effort this year is with Vacation Bible School. Ask Laura Cass more about where you can join in to become a volunteer!

At Broad Street UMC, there is always something everyone can do. Instead of simply asking for volunteers, we want to help you find the right place to serve. Let us know where your heart sings. Let us know if there is a place you’d like to serve.

When we volunteer, we put the work of the Holy Spirit first. And when we serve together, we live into our mission—knowing and sharing the life-changing love of Jesus Christ.

God loves you, and so do I. Let that be our motto when serving and being served.  See you Sunday!

Peace, Pastor Tracy