Answering the Call to Volunteer: Jeanette

Catholic Formation is a parish-wide team effort! We have many passionate, gifted volunteers from various backgrounds and occupations who give of themselves to help form our children, youth, and adults in the Catholic Faith. Enjoy another installment in our series of awesome volunteer testimonies!

Jeanette: Attorney | Hall Monitor for Youth Ministry Formation Night

I have one son in college and one son who was confirmed in April of this year. On any given day I am usually just treading water to try and stay afloat so I didn't think I would be able to add anything else to my busy schedule. After reading and hearing that there was a real need with the youth ministry, I looked for an easy way to become involved.  

I have the absolute best job of acting as a hall monitor and overall helper during the formation sessions. My favorite part about serving with the youth ministry is having the rare opportunity to spend time with the kids. Once they hit their teenage years, time with them becomes more and more difficult to obtain. I love seeing the kids engaging with their friends and participating in the Confirmation process.

I encountered God in so many ways, big and small, but my conversation with Alex Becker, who is currently in the seminary, and talking with him about his journey towards the priesthood really caused me to think deeper about my own faith. One thing that surprised me about helping with the youth ministry program is how easy it was and how much I enjoyed the small amount of time I spent doing it each month. My short talks between tasks with Olivia and with the other volunteers really taught me that the more involved you become with the faith community, the stronger your faith becomes. I mentioned to Alex that I felt guilty having such a small role, and his response was that you do what you can, depending on the time of your life, and that is why life is long. I really loved that sentiment.  

What would you tell someone who doesn't feel qualified to serve in youth ministry?
If you are taking the time to read this, you are qualified to serve. So many opportunities involve simply the desire to help. If you have any inkling that you may want to volunteer - go for it!

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We want to grow our team of amazing volunteers in every area of Catholic Formation: Child, Youth, and Adult, from hall monitors, crafters, and special events to catechists, small group leaders, and subs. Ask the Holy Spirit if He might be inviting you to be part of these ministries that are truly life-changing - both for those who are served, and those who serve. Get in touch with any of our CF staff to start a conversation!