Years ago, I was struggling to find a faith community that worked for my family. My son, who was entering his teenage years, was seriously questioning his faith. My then 10-year-old daughter, born with multiple special needs, couldn’t sit through a “church service.” We knew we needed something but weren’t sure where to start.
By the grace of God, I was invited to a women’s Bible study at Shepherd’s Gate and was moved by the women I met and the good they were doing. That first study included a “purse drive,” where we filled like-new purses with essentials for women in shelters. I thought, This is incredible. Some hurting woman will receive this and hopefully feel less alone.
Miraculously, I felt less alone too.
It started with a tentative yes.
I followed that feeling to Sunday service and have been attending and serving ever since. Over the years, our family has done all kinds of volunteering, and each one has grown our faith, joy, friendships, and family bond.
Our first experience volunteering was simple: we signed up as Sunday morning greeters. We chose this activity because we could do it together as a family. Once a month, we showed up, smiled, opened doors, and said “Good morning.” It was easy and fun—and we still do it today.
That led us to the “coffee crew.” Once a month, we brewed coffee and set out tea and snacks. Some of us ate too many cookies, however this was a nice way to meet and greet our church family together. 🙂
We followed our gifts.
When our son went off to college, we explored new ways to serve that matched our unique interests. I enjoy being around children, so I found joy serving with the SG Kids team. My husband—who enjoys landscaping—joined the outdoor beautification team.
Then came a gift we never expected: my daughter, who enjoyed SG Kids for many years with the help of a Special Buddy, became a Special Buddy herself. This volunteer opportunity has been LIFE CHANGING for our family! Every week, she looks forward to “her time” helping in SG Kids. She’s formed beautiful connections and found real purpose. We’re forever grateful to SG Kids director, Reggi, for creating this opportunity and making it happen.
We’re together again. 
Today, after eight years, our whole family serves together again in SG Kids. My husband and son are part of the security team,while my daughter and I serve as Special Buddies.
I can’t imagine how different things would be if we had “just” gone to church. All our treasured church friendships and shared family church experiences have happened while volunteering. And we feel better too!
You don’t have to wait to feel connected. 
Serving has given us so much more than we ever expected—and studies back it up. People who consistently help others experience better moods, higher self-esteem, greater life satisfaction, and even longer lives. (Source: Mental Health America)
I’m living proof: “Jesus math” works. What we receive from serving always adds up to more than we give.
While I know you’re busy and may be nervous to commit, I also know this: When you serve at SG, you will be blessed beyond measure.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the next step and check out how you can serve at Shepherd’s Gate HERE.
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45
