The large, open space in Second Baptist’s fellowship hall was transformed last week with a colorful collection of round tables, pine cones, pumpkins and — of course — an excited crowd of faithful volunteers and staff alike gathered for our annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet. As always, the opportunity to publicly recognize and express our gratitude for the countless hours of service, support and prayer extended to us by our greater community is a joyful experience and this year’s guest act offered by local pastor/comedian Leon Brooks III only heightened the amount of laughter present throughout the evening. Volunteer Coordinator Mara Guebara deftly went back and forth between English and Spanish during the program, allowing Brooks’ inspirational message on running the good race with endurance to be enjoyed by volunteers from all backgrounds. In addition to thanking each and every volunteer present for their invaluable service this year, each Center was grateful to recognize key individuals for “above and beyond” contributions of time, effort and consistent involvement. The Gano Mission Center Volunteer of the Year Award was granted to David Sutton and his involvement in the senior citizen ministry. Faye Hawkins was given the Fletcher Mission Center Volunteer of the Year Award for her contribution to our English as a Second Language classes. The Joy Fellowship Volunteer of the Year Award went to Mario Benavides for his overall participation in helping meet weekly needs. Last but not least, Frank and Sandy Kampe received Mission Centers of Houston Volunteer of the Year Award for their outstanding support and service hours at all 3 of our centers. The playful banter surrounding the dispensation of raffle items was another highlight of the evening and by the end of the program, all guests left with full hearts.

Thank you, dear volunteers, for the countless ways you contribute to the ongoing kingdom work taking place at our Gano Center, Fletcher Center and Joy Fellowship Center every day!