Brixworth Deanery Synod met on 7 May to recognise and celebrate the work of lay volunteers. They were delighted to welcome almost 100 lay volunteers and provided a light buffet to enable people to socialise and network.
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Chris Banks, Lay Chair, spoke about his intention to establish a lay network within the Deanery. This would have at least two purposes, firstly to provide an opportunity for people to share relevant skills and knowledge in all aspects of Church life with colleagues in different benefices. Secondly, simply to provide mutual support and encouragement to each other across our normal boundaries.
The Revd Allison Twigg, in her first meeting as Rural Dean, added her thanks and appreciation to all the lay volunteers. Parishes had been asked to send in photographs or short videos of volunteers at work and Revd Kevin Montgomery compiled these contributions into a video which was played more than once during the evening by popular demand.
Archdeacon Richard was the guest speaker. He listed the huge numbers of different types of work performed by the laity; from churchwardens to treasurers, administration, those involved in music, cleaning, flower arranging, bellringing, churchyard or church maintenance, serving refreshments, unlocking and locking the building, preparing for services, welcoming, tidying up afterwards and leading worship. He noted there was also an expectation to share their faith with others in the community. Without this work being done, the church cannot function. He said there were two words he wanted to respond with, and they were ‘thank you’
Richard went on to explain that anyone undertaking these duties is performing part of the missional activity of the Church, emphasising the importance of this work. He commented that at times people might not feel valued and that their work is not being noticed, but God always sees what we are doing and He will reward us. He mentioned the references in Scripture to ‘thank you, good and faithful servant’. As humans we are not always faithful to God, but he is faithful and unchanging towards us.
It was a very enjoyable and worthwhile evening, which affirmed how valuable volunteers are and how deaneries can provide a supportive environment to help them flourish in their roles.