The heart of volunteering

By Fr Luke Gregory, ofm

Custody of the Holy Land

In our troubled world that often feels divided, the Jubilee of the World of Volunteering and the Jubilee of Missionaries of Mercy remind us of the profound impact that selfless service can have on communities and the missions they serve in.

In Rhodes, a landscape rich in history and natural beauty, the spirit of volunteering thrives as individuals from diverse backgrounds together with the Franciscan fraternity of the Custody of the Holy Land, converge to make a difference to those most in need, to the many refugees and migrants who arrive daily. But what drives these individuals to join such initiatives, and what bonds do they forge along the way? Many volunteers find their calling through a deep sense of purpose and a desire to serve. For some, it is rooted in religious beliefs, where volunteering becomes a pathway to live out their faith. Others may be motivated by personal experiences — perhaps a transformative moment in their life where they themselves received help, which now compels them to give something back.

This shared commitment creates a vibrant and joyful team of like-minded individuals, uniting them through a common goal of making positive changes in the lives of their brothers and sisters. In Rhodes, the variety of mission and volunteer projects available caters to numerous causes, from environmental conservation and the support of the marginalized groups of migrants and refugees, whom Pope Francis refers to as: the modern-day lepers.

Volunteers often describe the experience as a journey, not just a task. With every interaction, they connect with those whom they serve, gaining insights into their lives, cultures, and struggles. These exchanges are not mere service transactions; they often blossom into deep friendships that cross borders and transcend language barriers. One particular aspect that adds depth to the volunteer experience in Rhodes is the cultural exchange that occurs. Volunteers bring their backgrounds, stories, and skills, combining them with the rich tapestry of foreign and local traditions they fortune upon; these experiences create lasting memories and foster lasting relationships.

Many volunteers find themselves enriched not only by what they give but also by what they receive — the precious gift of understanding and acceptance. As friendships form, the bonds often extend beyond the immediate mission. Long after the volunteer’s work is complete, many maintain connections with those they met during their time in Rhodes. Social media platforms, e-mails, and occasional visits help preserve these relationships, transforming fleeting encounters into lifelong friendships. Such connections often lead to collaborative efforts across continents, sparking ideas for new projects and initiatives, and reinforcing the global essence of volunteerism. The Franciscan Mediterranean Net is one example that encourages such connection, also providing information (info@franciscannetwork.eu).

Additionally, the impact of mission work does not only touch the lives of the beneficiaries but also profoundly transforms the volunteers themselves. They often return home with a renewed perspective, carrying stories and storytelling of resilience, hope, and humanity that challenge their worldview. This human aspect of mission work — recognizing the stories behind the faces — creates a ripple effect, inspiring more people to join the cause.

In conclusion, the Jubilee of the World of Volunteering and the Jubilee of Missionaries of Mercy highlights the importance of human connections in mission work. In Rhodes, volunteers discover not only the joy of giving but also the beauty of relationships, learning, and growth that ensue. By embracing the human aspect of service, these initiatives create enduring bonds that last a lifetime, knitting together a global community united in purpose, mercy, and compassion.

As we celebrate these values, we are reminded that every small act of service has the potential to create profound and enduring change in the world.