JUNE DISCIPLE OF THE MONTH:
CAROL GROOTE
How long have you been a member of Saint John’s?
I joined Saint John’s on October 2, 1983, and I have been a member now for almost 42 years. When we were looking for a place to live after Bob’s job required a move from Florida, the minute we drove past Saint John’s, I knew that this was the church that would be home. As we settled in with schools and doctors, I found time to begin volunteering.
In what areas do you volunteer?
Over these 40+ years at Saint John’s, I have volunteered in a variety of areas: Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, Social Ministry, Stewardship, Youth, Bridges, Hospitality for the Homeless/Family Promise, and now on the Archives Committee. I have been a member of the Adult Choir for over 30 years, a member of the Recorder Ensemble, and now a member of Luther Ringers.
What initially interested you in these areas?
When I joined a church after getting married and moving to Illinois, the Council President called me that very night welcoming me and right out asked me what I would like to do for St. Paul’s, catching me totally off guard. Without that call, I may have just attended church as a new member. So, when I told him I was a first year teacher, he suggested I teach Sunday School, but I declined as I already had my hands full as a new teacher. Having sung in church choirs since I was in second grade, I volunteered to sing and have continued singing in church choirs through the years. I was the youngest person elected to Council at St. Paul’s and was the Council Secretary for three years. As a Council member, you truly see what it takes for a church to run successfully; it takes dedicated volunteers! I really think that that influenced me.
What advice can you give people thinking of volunteering?
If you are considering volunteering, start small. Find something that interests you. You might just find your calling. Or, join up with people you’d like to meet or people you feel comfortable being with and welcome their experience. You might just meet a member or members that encourage you, that make you feel comfortable, needed. Take a chance, get involved. It’s the way to become a contributing church member.