Just as a bit of background…
In 2023, the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne held a series of workshops called ‘Take the Way of the Gospel’ where clergy, staff, and volunteers were provided with a Framework for Parish Renewal. The end goal being that Melbourne parishes are Vibrant, Vital and Viable.
Vibrant parishes understand each person is uniquely called and gifted, and they pay attention to forming and equipping them to live their calling.
Vital parishes have clear direction, purpose, and collaborate effectively with others to support and enhance each person’s spiritual journey.
Viable parishes have the financial, people and property resources, and can mobilize these resources for their common vision and mission. They openly share their spiritual, ministerial, and material resources with others for the benefit of the whole Archdiocese.
What are we doing?
Over the next month, The Parish of Our Lady and St Therese is conducting a volunteering drive called ‘Use Your Talents’, to inform parishioners of the opportunities for involvement in the parish, and to invite parishioners to participate in at least one new role.
Why are we doing this?
We are fortunate that in our parish, there exists many opportunities to practice and grow in faith, and to contribute to the viability of the parish.
We have just released our Parish Strategic Plan, outlining a clear path forward to enhance what is available within our Parish community and one thing we know will be vital to the success of the plan is the participation and retention of volunteers.
However, many of our volunteers are ageing, or for other reasons are unable to continue in some roles. Going forward, we would like to continue, and possibly expand, many of the services you enjoy today.
How will we do it?
We have a brochure ‘Share Your Time & Talents’ which is available on all church entry tables. In this brochure you can find a list of the groups and ministries where you can contribute to and participate in our parish.
There are four broad categories of volunteers to choose from:
- Mass & Liturgy
- Outreach / Community
- Education / Formation
- Administration / Development
- Property
We invite you to have a look at the list and to choose one or more roles that suit you then fill in all the details and return it to the parish office.
If you already volunteer in one or more ministries, please indicate those ministries, and add any new ones you would like to participate in.
For those who are comfortable online, there is QR code in the bulletin, or online access via the parish website, which will take you to a form which you can print out at home.
Finally…
Volunteering time at the parish can be a very rewarding experience; you might even make some new friends, and learn something by participating.