Global Youth Ministry Network - Asia

“V” is a Roman numeral symbol for five and volunteer is a verb described by the Webster dictionary as an offering of any service out of one’s own free will, without solicitation or compulsion; same word is also used to define a person offering such service. In this post, I will be discussing five reasons why people volunteer for Global Youth Ministry Network. This is also a compilation of testimonies of volunteers on the ways that they were able to help GYMN and what motivated them to support the ministry. May a glimpse of these people’s lives serve as an encouragement and an inspiration on how young people and young professionals can use their gifts in serving the Lord through mission-based ministries.

1.  Experience

Otet Macapagal largely contributed in the development of the Christmas catalog project. As the head graphic designer, he made outstanding contribution in the creation of the project. Volunteering in an organization can add up to your experience and expose you to areas that you can practice your expertise. In the creation of the catalog, Otet did not only support GYMN but he also enhanced his skills in designing materials such as catalogs. As a budding graphic designer, he can include this project in his portfolio and use the learning he gained from this experience.  Otet said, “If next time I will be asked to offer my assistance to GYMN, just let me know, hindi mapapalitan ang experience na ganun (an experience like this can never be replaced).” Another volunteer is Jonjon Bonso, an IT professional, who helped in this year’s launching of the GYMN-Asia website.  He supported in the migration from the blog to what is now the website.

2. Believing in the ministry

Nowadays, people stand up for various causes led by organizations that awaken awareness for cancer, poverty, hunger and animal rights. As Christians, we are also drawn to different ministries for youth, music, children and leadership. As volunteers for GYMN, they should primarily be convinced of the ministry’s vision and mission.  Rina Miralles said that “I truly believe in what the GYMN people are doing to train and equip the youth of our generation. I can say that the GYMN staff and supporters give their time, effort and financial support for the very reason of giving glory to God alone. We are all created for God’s kingdom.”  Jonjon Bonso said, “I volunteered because I believe in GYMN’s advocacy to train youth leaders, I see that the staff are authentic Christians.”

3.  Helping hands

The process of publishing and sending the Youth Connections newsletter consists of different steps. The process includes the writing of the article, then making the lay-out, revising, printing, folding of the newsletters, inserting them into envelopes, addressing and finally mailing. If a single person performs all these jobs, it would take him/her more than a day to finish. That’s where the help of some volunteers come in and this is just one of those activities we do here in GYMN. Nan Peña said that, “In a ministry like GYMN, there are many activities and some may even be big events, during these times a volunteer’s presence is needed to lessen some work loads. The impossible becomes possible with the Lord. The little help we give, when combined together becomes a great help.”

4.  Finding joy

When volunteering for any organization, your joy in supporting them must always be considered. The idea of giving one’s self, without expecting monetary benefits, becomes more rewarding when you find joy in doing it. Grace Malicdem is a part-time worker that assists in the making of monthly financial statements. She, however, offers assistance voluntarily on areas outside finance. She said, “I volunteer because there is joy in serving the Creator through GYMN and in seeing the youth growing in Christ.” Jessa Tomale, a new addition to the circle of volunteers said that, “I volunteer because I enjoy it and it’s a way of using my time well.”

5.  Fellowship and Encouragement

The group of volunteers with some GYMN staff also find time to meet at least once a month. They watch movies, eat-out and play card games. During these times, they simply talk about their jobs, ministries and concerns. In the sharing of failures and victories, each one is ministered and encouraged. Most of the volunteers are young professionals, thus, they can relate to each other’s struggles and experiences. Rina Miralles said, “Although we belong to different churches, we are united in Christ.”

In conclusion, most of the volunteers here, came to know GYMN because they joined the youth leadership training. Volunteering can also be an application of the lessons learned from the material, particularly the concept of networking. Otet Macapagal said “I am happy to volunteer. Even in little ways, I can practice the lessons I learned from the training. It is also a way of showing my gratitude not only to the ministry but also to the trainers and staff who are fun to be with.” Nan Peña said that, ”I want to be a blessing to the GYMN people by saying ‘yes’ to volunteering in simple ways.”

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