One reason people often decide to become volunteers is in order to grow in their spirituality. The volunteer
experience is in many ways uniquely suited to such growth. After the
growth you experienced as a volunteer, you may be wondering how you can
continue to have access to opportunities for such experiences once you
return from your volunteer commitment. Consider the following suggestions:
n Become involved in
workshops and retreats offered in your area. Get on the mailing lists of
local retreat houses and read your diocesan newspaper or bulletin.
n
Find out if
a lay formation program exists in your
diocese. If not, see if others are interested in pioneering one.
n Get involved in a prayer
group. Choose from groups for young adults, charismatic groups, social
justice-oriented groups and others. Find one that suits you and your
prayer style.
n Join or form a Bible
study group in your parish.
n Find out what is
happening in your area on the ecumenical scene. There is nothing like
praying together to unify various Christian groups. You may decide to
explore other prayer groups. The wisdom of other traditions can enrich
your Christian spirituality.
n Contact
the Pallotti Center to receive Staying
Connected, a publication just for former volunteers
to discuss issues and concerns about post-volunteer life, values and
choices.
n Get a spiritual
director. Often vocations or young adult ministry persons will give
information on available spiritual directors in your area. This may be a
priest, religious or lay person. A spiritual director must be carefully
chosen: their style should suit yours, and they must be able to challenge
you in such a way that you grow by spending time with them. It is a
difficult search, but certainly a rewarding one.
