By Aaron E. Ziebarth, Executive Director
So much of what we do at Joy El is accomplished through the efforts of many faithful volunteers. This past year more than 1190, volunteers served at least a couple hours each week ministering to the children in the Released Time Bible program.
At the end of the year we surveyed all of our volunteers to see how they grew, what they learned, why they served and how they think we can improve the program. Many of the answers showed just how fulfilling this ministry is for them.
“Being involved in RT in my retirement years is a wonderful way to keep on serving the Lord. As a young Christian I helped with DVBS, as a college student I taught Sunday School and even preached a few sermons at my church. As a medical missionary I worked with leprosy patients and when I retired from the mission field I thought the Lord was finished with me as far as services goes. For me being a RT volunteer is “the icing on the cake!”
“I love this program and will always be a supporter as long as the mission stays strong and the Word of God remains central!”
It would be impossible to reach each of the 3,450 children who participated this last year without these volunteers. And as their service to Jesus Christ is not only fulfilling what God has created them to do (Ephesians 2:10) but it is also multiplying the gifts that God has given each volunteer. I can imagine how he will speak to each volunteer. “Well done good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).
There is always opportunity if you are interested in serving. We have opportunities for summer camp volunteers such as nurses, kitchen helpers and office assistants. Or perhaps you would like to mow the lawn? And of course there’s plenty of opportunity to serve this next year in any of the 90 schools where we have Released Time.
