A Servant's Heart

Every week at mass, the priest talks about service and giving of ones "time, talent and treasurers."  When we first moved down here, I was overwhelmed with the thought of it all.  In August of 2023, we didn't have much to give monetarily and I never felt like I ever had a "talent" that would serve the church.  I was exhausted from the move and after spending a good part of my life volunteering, I definitely didn't feel as though I had any time to give.  

Thankfully, all of that has changed in the past three years.  I have been able to create a budget that always gives to others including the church first, and I have found a way to give my time in a way that works best for our schedule and Blessed Trinity's needs.  I realize that working in the gift shop after 11 a.m. mass isn't a large commitment compared to how much I had volunteered in the past, but it does help.  During that hour, fellow parishioners in need of a gift for a First Communicant, or a card for a newly ordained priest, or a religious statue for their home have a place to shop, ask questions and mostly importantly feel part of our church's community.  One day, I even stayed late so that an elderly woman had a place to rest while waiting on her son to pick her up from mass enabling me to use what I believe is my greatest talent - compassion.

Soon, I will be even busier serving the church as I will be the Parliamentarian for CCW.  My role will not be as big as when I was treasurer, but it will be an important one.  Plus, I will be able to support the newly elected President as she has become one of my closest friends in Ocala.  It may not seem like much, but being a part of our church's community has truly changed my life and has made me realize that no act of service is too small in the eyes of God.