Volunteers: The Heart of Our Parish

Volunteers are at the heart of what it takes to keep a parish running smoothly. Have you ever heard the commercial with the slogan, “Do you know a guy in the window and door business? No, but I know a girl”? St. Anthony on the Lake has a lot of “guys and girls” in many different areas who are willing to share their talents and gifts.

St. Anthony on the Lake has earned a reputation within the Archdiocese of Milwaukee as a parish blessed with talented members who are willing to get involved and generously donate not only their treasure, but also their time and talent.

Several years ago, during our parish reaccreditation process, an interviewer asked why we were not relying on outside consultants for various parish activities and committees. In response, I listed members of our finance, personnel, and buildings and grounds committees, along with the companies they work for and the professional positions they hold. Later, I was told that many parishes would give anything to have even one person with those qualifications serving on their committees.

What makes our parish especially remarkable is that parishioners are not only willing to share their professional expertise, they are also willing to pitch in wherever help is needed.

A wonderful example took place on April 25 during our annual Spring Clean-Up Day. About 15 volunteers arrived with four tractors, buckets, rakes, and shovels ready to work, led by Bob Bluhm. In less than three hours, the group spruced up the campus and moved an incredible 75 yards of mulch. Their hard work and cheerful spirit made a tremendous difference and demonstrated once again what can be accomplished when people come together in service.

The strength of St. Anthony on the Lake has never been found only in its buildings or programs, but in its people. Our volunteers quietly and faithfully serve in countless ways every day —often behind the scenes —helping to make our parish a welcoming, vibrant, and faith -filled community.

To all who volunteer their time and talents: thank you. Your generosity continues to strengthen our parish and reflects the spirit of Christian stewardship in action.