Doing Good is Good for Everyone

      Last weekend we had a “ministry fair.” Opportunities for ministry and service in the parish were on display for review by parishioners. Representatives did their best to describe the kind of ministry they do. Eucharistic ministers, Prayer Vine intercessors, Lectors, Ushers, Youth leaders, Pastoral Care ministers, Catechists, Choirs, Worship Committee, Musicians, Liturgy teachers, RCIA teachers, Communion ministers to the homebound, Money counters, Food Pantry workers, Council members, Worship leaders, Altar linen launderers, Retreat leaders, Art & Environment leaders, people who prepare food for the hungry, sandwich makers, etc., were present or had information available about their ministry. Perhaps there is a ministry that you will begin because you observed that something is missing.

      The fair is just one way by which we are trying to help parish members to make commitments to share their time and talent with the whole parish. For some people giving money is the only way they can support the parish. Being generous with one’s wealth is a powerful gesture. For others, they are looking for a “both-and” experience. They understand the parish needs money to pay the bills. However, we diminish ourselves if we do not take advantage of the opportunities to share our life, our talents, our intelligence, and even our smile with others. The list of ministries above and many more can be a door by which we enter into the church community more deeply.

      In the past several years I have watched members of the parish seek out preparation and training for ministries. Both the parish and the Green Bay Diocese offer ministry training. We have new singers, youth leaders, catechists, and lectors and many more. I, personally, encouraged some people, some others were encouraged by those who are already involved in the ministry, and some parishioners came to know about the ministry by their own investigation.

      In the end, God leads each of us to offer ourselves for others. Such service is a sign of agape (Christ-like love). We do not minister and serve just so that we can feel better about ourselves. The best motivation for ministry and service is that we do good for others. Such “good for others” is good for us, too.

Peace Fr. Andy