“Service is not just an obligation. It is my calling, my passion, and my way of living as a disciple of Christ.”
Janelle Grant of St. Paul’s, Paterson, shares how serving on diocesan leadership bodies and with youth and anti-racism ministries has deepened her faith and connection to the Church. Hear her inspiring reflection on why she serves — and her hope that others will answer the call to serve too. (Time: 1:37.)
Video Transcript
My name is Janelle Grant, and I’m a member of St Paul’s, Paterson. I’ve served on Diocesan Council, the Strategic Visioning and Planning Committee, the ACTS/VIM Board, and I’ve served as a lay deputy to General Convention. I currently serve on the Standing Committee, the Anti-Racism Commission, and I co-chair the First Third of Life Commission. I’m pretty sure there’s more. But why do I serve?
Like many, I felt the call to serve, but the reason I continue to serve is because this is me living into my discipleship. This is me using the gifts that God has given me and giving it back to the church. Serving is one of the ways that I follow Christ, and I know that I’m doing good work. I know that I’m doing God’s work, especially when I’m with the youth of our diocese, walking alongside them as they cultivate their faith, deepen their relationship with God and learn to build community. This has been some of the most meaningful ministry I’ve done.
I served as lay deputy at the General Convention because I wanted our diocese to have a voice in the wider Episcopal Church. That role gave me the opportunity to represent us, to learn more and to be a part of shaping change in governance and structure.
I serve on the Anti-Racism Commission because I’m passionate about racial reconciliation and healing, within the church and within the wider community. This work not only allows me to share that message, but also to educate and encourage others to join the journey.
For me, service is not just an obligation. It is my calling, it is my passion, and it is my way of living as a disciple of Christ. That’s why I serve, and I pray you feel the call to serve too.
See the offices, candidates, and nomination form for the 151st Convention at: dioceseofnewark.org/convention/elections
