What’s your passion? What’s your calling? With dozens of ministries, groups, and volunteer opportunities, there’s a place for you here!
Worship and events
Communion servers: Help to serve communion during worship. Contact Karin Pietrini (kipinop@sbcglobal.net), 708-421-5908.
Greeters: Do you like people? Have a firm handshake? A great smile? You qualify to be a greeter! The Greeting Committee could use a few more folks to help welcome the congregation to worship on Sunday mornings. It’s not a big time commitment, but it’s a very important job! Contact Joanne Despotes (jdespotes@gmail.com), 708-209-1377.
Ushering team: Every week we also need people to collect the offering. Once a month, we need ushers to direct people to communion. It’s a quick and easy way to serve during worship. Contact Bob Larson (robertjlarson@sbcglobal.net), 708-383-1819.
Liturgists: People of all ages who would like to lead prayers or read scripture during Worship are always welcome. Contact any of the pastors for more information or to volunteer.
Hospitality/fellowship: Help plan, shop, and set up food for events such as Gathering Day, the annual Church Picnic, congregational breakfasts, and more. Contact Britt Cox (bcox@firstunitedoakpark.com), 708-386-5215 (ext.) 105.
Memorial reception helpers: Volunteers are always needed to help bake cookies and serve at the receptions after memorial services. For more information, contact Karin Pietrini (kipinop@sbcglobal.net), 708-421-5908, or Leah Beckwith (leahb44@ameritech.net), 708-386-4809.
Care
Visitation team: Would you like to support the members of our congregation who cannot easily leave their homes to get to church on Sundays? Join this dedicated group of Christians who visit our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ when they are not able to join us regularly for worship. Contact Britt Cox (bcox@firstunitedoakpark.com), 708-386-5215 (ext.) 105.
Flower delivery: Assist in the delivery of flowers used in our sanctuary on certain Sunday mornings to be given to members and their families who are experiencing joys or concerns. Contact Amanda Swanson (office@firstunitedoakpark.com), 708-386-5215 (ext.) 100.
PAL writers: P.A.L. stands for People Are Loving. PAL writers sign up for one month a year to hand-write notes to members and others experiencing joys and concerns. Contact Chris Davis (teachnpreach@att.net), 708-383-5632.
Help and housekeeping
Bergstraesser Library volunteers: Join us in helping with the housekeeping tasks of our lovely church library. Attend an orientation session, then drop in when you can. Contact Cindy Palombi (cindypalombi@sbcglobal.net), 708-383-0945.
Office helpers: Assist with church mailings, data entry, digital communications, or other tasks that fit your schedule, skills, or interests. Contact Amanda Swanson (office@firstunitedoakpark.com), 708-386-5215 (ext. 100).
Sanctuary Art Guild. Want to use your art skills to create three-dimensional visuals that fill the sanctuary and enhance worship? We’re always looking for new talent. Contact John Zaruba (zaruba@bmttoys.com), 708-386-8405.
Shawl Ministry: The Shawl Ministry creates shawls and garments for First United members, wrapping them in loving comfort during times of need (illness, bereavement, etc.) We meet on the first Tuesdays and fourth Thursdays, but attendance is not required to be a member — the willingness to commit time and talent to handcrafts is most important. Lessons available for new knitters!
Caregiver support group: This is a drop-in support group for anyone caring for loved ones or friends who are unable to care for themselves. Contact Leah Beckwith (leahb44@ameritech.net), 708-386-4809.
Committees
What’s your calling? Getting involved in a church committee is a first step to joining the life of the church. See Committee descriptions and contact information by visiting our Committees page.
