Volunteer Stories

A few years ago, I wrote a series of stories called “People I’ve Met at Church.” All the church members I interviewed for this series already knew the stories they told me. But it was fun to listen for a few minutes and then shape their stories into something I could share with friends.  Some of the people I interviewed have since passed away.

Before Jane Came to this Community – The touching and inspiring story of Jane Ferguson’s life before she became synonymous with community ministries in Montgomery.

Faith, Family and Baseball — Barrows Style – When it comes to building family legacies, Gil and Barbara Barrow have hit a home run.

Serving Cross Culturally with Richard – From Perry Street to Central Asia, Richard Alford shares the language of love.

At Home with Mary Ann and Gene – In sickness and in health definitely holds true here. Their love has been growing strong for 63 1/2 years.

Visiting Mayberry with Doug – Doug Rogers is the professional behind the scenes of many inspiring videos, plus he has a passion for “all things Mayberry.”

In the Prayer Room with Glenda – From this small room, the concerns of church members are raised up week after week.

Sunday Lunch with Sam – For this 8 1/2 year old, everything at church is really fun.

Beyond the Magnolia Tree with John and Helen – They’ve lived nearly 56 years in a home many people can’t see.

Cecile and All Her Children – Cecile Hamblin has made a difference in many young lives.

My Evening with Mique and Rudy – Sometimes you just want to reconnect with people you met at church.

Rocking Babies with Donnie – Donnie Sasser’s ready for the rocking chair, every Sunday morning.

Praying a Song with Sharon – Some things you learn in church come back to you right when you need them. Just ask Sharon McGee.

In the Choir Loft with Sarah & Jack – In the choir for 60 years? Seriously? Yes, if you’re Sarah and Jack Lee.

At the Table with Henry & Sara Jane – A ministerial team with stories to tell? Yes, and quite interesting indeed — if you’re Henry and Sara Jane Lyon.

In the Ushers’ Room with Burt – An usher for 40 years? That’s just one part of Burt Martin’s unique story.

Inside the Sanctuary with Bill & Patty – A tree’s been growing in Montgomery for 32 years so far. It was planted and nurtured by Bill and Patty Roper.

In the Preschool Room with Ruthie Grace – My youngest interviewee by far — 4-year-old Ruthie Grace is a one-of-a-kind kid that you should get to know too.

In the Hallway with Miss Pat – Pat Stewart has worked in preschool ministry for 50 years.

On the Sidewalk with Bill – Whose hand did I shake before I entered the drop-off door? Bill Lambert’s name is similar, but no relation.

Under the Tree with Beppy – Beppy Tiller has turned pages for  the organist during 30 years of Christmas performances.

On the Canvas with Children – I started painting mini-portraits of children for people I met at church.

Karen’s Soothing Sounds of Southern Gospel – This soloist’s smooth, rich vocals are quite a treat.

Giving It the Old College Try with Tommy and Kathy – A former classmate and I were in English 101 together; now we’re in Preschool 109.

Sharing Hope with Joy and Tommy – A faithful Montgomery couple spends almost four years in Haiti caring for children.

Noteworthy Memories with Elise – This long-time friend has a long-time goal: stay in preschool till she’s 90.

In the Childcare Room with Nancy and Allyson – Two friends share one goal: make sure the kids are happy.

Getting the Kids to Church — with Beth and Bryan – Beth and Bryan Oliver are planting seeds of faith early and already seeing fruit.

Caring for Others with Evelyn and Wesley – From the sidewalks to the Caring Center, to the church kitchen and Haiti, this couple finds ways to serve.

Conducting the Orchestra with Kerry – Kerry Palmer is now in his 14th year on the job.

How did I get to this church? I tell about that in People I Met at Church: An Introduction