Volunteering
Volunteering and Work Experience
The Value of Volunteering: For You and the Church
Volunteering is at the heart of our life together at St John the Baptist Church. Every time someone offers their time, skills, and care – whether it’s serving coffee, welcoming at the door, helping with children’s groups, singing in the choir, or supporting our community outreach – they are not just filling a task; they are living out what it means to be the Church. Our volunteers come from all backgrounds and faiths.
Volunteering is about being part of something bigger than yourself. It’s a way of belonging to a community that is working together to share God’s love in practical and meaningful ways. Every act of service, no matter how small, contributes to making lives better and is deeply appreciated.
It’s also a gift to you. Volunteering gives you opportunities to connect with others, develop new skills and discover how your unique talents and experiences can make a difference. Many find that serving in church life allows them to grow personally and spiritually, deepening their faith and bringing joy in knowing they are making a real impact.
Whatever your age, if you would like to volunteer, we would love to welcome you. Your gifts and personal experiences are valued here. We welcome young people completing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award or those looking for work experience placements.
You may be someone who prefers to work quietly on your own – perhaps tending the church garden or helping behind the scenes. Or it might be the team spirit and community-building of serving tea, coffee, and cake with others that appeals to you. Whatever your preference, we want your volunteering to be valuable and enjoyable for you, as well as a blessing to those who come through our doors.
At St John’s, and through Wellspring, we seek to provide services and social events for people of all faiths and none, and of all ages. Volunteering is a wonderful way to get involved, meet new people and play a part in building a welcoming and caring community.
Volunteering Opportunities — Where Could You Get Involved?
There are so many ways to volunteer at St John the Baptist Church and Wellspring. Whether you enjoy being part of a lively team or prefer to work quietly behind the scenes, there is a role where your time and talents can make a real difference.
Here are just a few of the opportunities available:
Welcomer
Be a friendly face at our services and events, greeting people as they arrive and helping them feel at home. A warm welcome can transform someone’s experience.
Coffee & Tea Team
Help us create a space for conversation and community by serving refreshments after services and at social events. It’s a simple way to bring people together.
Children’s Team Helper
Support our children’s groups on Sundays or at special events. You’ll assist with activities, crafts, and games that help our youngest members learn and grow in faith. All those wishing to volunteer with children or vulnerable adults will need to be DBS checked, and this is a straightforward process that we can do together.
Garden Helper
If you enjoy working outdoors, why not help us care for the church grounds? Whether it’s weeding, planting, or general maintenance, your work will help create a peaceful and welcoming space for all.
Choir & Music Group Member
If you enjoy singing or playing an instrument, why not join our choir or one of our informal music groups? Music is an important part of our worship and community life, and there’s always room for more voices and musicians – whatever your level of experience.
Helping Older People
Join us in reaching out to older people. This might involve helping at one of our regular groups or celebration events. A small act of kindness can make a big difference.
Wellspring Community Support
Be part of our Wellspring initiative, which offers creative and welcoming spaces for people of all faiths and none. You could help with setting up, serving refreshments, chatting with visitors, or assisting with community events and activities.
Developing New Projects and Ideas
If you have new ideas to serve and bring this community together, and would like to get suggest new social events you would like to see happen, we want to hear from you.
How to Get Started:
If you’re interested in finding out more about any of these roles – or if you have other skills you’d like to offer – please get in touch. We’d love to explore how you can get involved in a way that feels right for you. To find out more please e-mail the church office stjohns@inthevale.org.uk or turn up at an event or service to find out more and speak to someone in person. If your volunteering is part of a programme like Duke of Edinburgh or school Work Experience, please mention this in your e-mail.
Here are some quotes from people who have volunteered with us
“I really enjoyed doing my work experience here. There’s a great sense of community, that made me feel so welcome, and I loved developing my skills and ambitions here.”
Bella, Work Experience student
“I volunteer at the summer fayre, because I enjoy meeting my neighbours and the wider community. I like to help out and it’s a really fun way to spend a few hours. I also love being in the church garden as it’s so well looked after and very peaceful, (once the crowds have gone home.)”
Sophie, local resident