Over 1,000 volunteers are needed each month to help usher, greet guests, provide technical support and/or care for children throughout weekend worship services. Family friendly serving opportunities are available.

Volunteer positions include:

Usher: Ushers are a vital part of the worship team responsible for greeting guests, passing attendance notebooks, collecting offering, and tidying up sections following worship. 

Communion Server: Assist monthly during the worship service of your choice by serving Communion elements to fellow worshipers.

Door Greeter: Welcome guests as they enter the worship space (standing near the doors to the parking lot). 

Tech Arts Team: Assist in live production with camera, lights, audio and logistics to make our worship events really shine.

KIDSCOR team: Prepare crafts, greet new families before worship, help in a classroom or rock babies during the worship service of your choice.

Connection Point: Help point our guests in the right direction and answer basic questions.

Mug Mappers: Using Mapquest or Google Maps, create and print maps to our first-time visitors' homes for mug deliverers to use as well as stuffing the maps inside the mugs and collecting the attendance sheets from the usher room.

Section Community Greeters:  Help people sitting around you in worship feel welcome by extending Resurrection hospitality.

Note: If you are interested in serving with the traffic ministry, email Craig Elford.

June 13-22, 2018

Serve with hundreds of volunteers as we refresh and revitalize Whittier Elementary. Click here to register.

Shifts will be 9 am - noon, 1-4 pm and 5:30-8:30 pm daily (no evening shifts on Friday or Saturday). Ages 12 and up are welcome (see youth policy below).

Volunteers are needed to serve in a variety of skilled and less skilled roles from painting, cleaning, organizing and hospitality to more heavy physical roles including playground installation and spreading mulch. Playground work team volunteers must be able to lift 50 pounds and be age 16 or older.

Hospitality Volunteer Opportunities

If you can't commit to physically joining our team we have some behind the scenes ways you can help.

1. Volunteers are needed to provide lunch items for volunteers working multiple shifts during Bless the School. There is a preset menu each day. Meal items will be delivered to Church of the Resurrection at 10am the day of the event.  Please contact Cheryl Jorgensen at ckjorgensen17@gmail.com or Denise Mersmann at dmersmann@aol.com for details.
2. Volunteers needed to provide 4 dozen cookies in disposable containers to be delivered either June 9/10 or June 16/17. These cookies will be dropped off at Church of the Resurrection in the Mission Ministry Space on the South side of the narthex.  The shelving will be marked.  Please DO not bring cookies any other time.  They will be used as treats for those volunteers at Whittier.  Please contact Susan Mulvaney at mulvaneysm@yahoo.com or Amy Rush at arush@waddell.com with questions.

Youth Volunteer Policy

To ensure proper supervision and safety for all participants, the following policy applies to all youth volunteers who sign up with the Volunteer Coordinator or via online registration.

Age 16 and Older

Youth 16 and older may participate unaccompanied in the Bless the School Project if they have a combined Resurrection/KCMO School District Youth Release Form, and both are signed by the parent/guardian of the youth. Releases may not be signed by any other person.

Ages 12-15

• All youth between the ages of 12 and 15 must be accompanied by an adult, with combined release form specified above, completed and signed by their parent or guardian. If adult other than parent is bringing a youth volunteer, please have parent of youth complete release in advance.
• A ratio of 1 adult to every 3 youth volunteers must be maintained.
• Adult sponsors must provide direct oversight for the activities of their charges at all times.
• Youth must be transported to and from the site by their adult sponsors. They cannot be dropped off or wait for pick up at the site.
• Youth will not be allowed in areas with scaffolding and will not be allowed on ladders.

Under Age 12 – Not Allowed

For safety reasons, no one under the age of 12 may participate in this project or be on the project site.

Join rezlife on one of our domestic mission trips as an adult leader!  Spend some time helping middle schoolers grow in faith on their KC Surge mission trip, or serve alongside high schoolers in Dallas, Chicago, or Denver.  See specific trip under events for more details.  It will be an unforgettable experience!  Check out the above video to hear from some past leaders.

Section Greeters lead the charge for radical hospitality by noticing, giving personal attention, and providing excellent follow-through to everyone who comes into their section.  Section Greeters help establish a greater sense of connection with those who sit in their sections by welcoming them and learning their names.  They help make a large church feel smaller and more welcoming.

Serve Trips to Puerto Rico

2018 Serve Trips Remaining

• June 16-23, 2018; TRIP IS FULL
• August 4-11, 2018 

2019 Serve Trips (REGISTRATION COMING SOON):

• January 2019
• March 2019
• April 2019
• June 2019
• October 2019

Individuals with constructions skills are encouraged to apply. Please note: Participants must be 18 years or older and Safe Gatherings certified to participate. 

All funds received are considered a charitable contribution.  As such, once they are received by The Church of the Resurrection, there are NO REFUNDS.  If, for some reason, the trip is cancelled or you can no longer go, Resurrection will credit the funds toward a future serve trip (for you or for an immediate family member) within 12 months of the original trip; OR use the funds for ministry work with our Methodist partners in Puerto Rico.

If you have questions about the deductibility of trip-related expenses, please contact your tax professional.

About Our Puerto Rico Disaster Response

Puerto Rico is often referred to as the “Island of Enchantment,” a direct result of the warm people, excellent cuisine, and picturesque scenery, including the most beautiful beaches.  Paradise is what the local people call it, as they get to see and live into GOD’s creation and beauty every single day.

On September 20th, 2017, Hurricane Maria (a category 4 hurricane) pummeled the island of Puerto Rico.  The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection mobilized quickly to help with immediate needs.  After contacting the Bishop’s office of the Methodist Church in Puerto Rico to determine the best way forward, Church of the Resurrection sent $10,000 for emergency supplies, and partnered with Heart to Heart International in sending an additional $20,000 worth of food and supplies.

The Methodist Church of Puerto Rico also immediately responded to the call to action, developing a culture of lay and clergy Early Response teams, implementing a Brigade of Hope (food, solar lights and water hand delivered to homes) and partnering with other local denominations, non-government organizations (NGOs) and FEMA to help those in need.

In January, a small leadership team from Church of the Resurrection went to Puerto Rico to walk alongside the Bishop Hector Ortiz Vidal and his team and see first-hand the devastation left in the wake of this natural disaster.  The team learned staggering statistics about the situation on the island, including:

• 250,000 homes damaged
• 100,000 completely destroyed
• 40 Methodist Churches damaged
• 10 Methodist Churches destroyed
• Several hundred thousand left the island for the mainland

Bishop Hector Ortiz Vidal recommended that Church of the Resurrection partner with a local church in Puerto Rico. We are happy to share that Samuel Culpeper Iglesia Metodista in Hatillo has been selected for this partnership.

There are 235 public schools across the island that are slated to permanently close this summer, including Joaquin Rodriguez, Samuel Culpeper's church partner school.  The Methodist Church in Puerto Rico will be enhancing social programs to assist those families with children who are no longer able to attend school. The remaining funds collected from the Special Offering for Puerto Rico held last fall have been allocated to the reconstruction of the church roof, a priority from the bishop’s office, enabling them to provide help to all those in need.

Resurrection teams have already been deployed and have worked alongside our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters repairing the church roof, repairing local homes, and assisting with painting and clean up.  Returned team members have shared that the experience has made a dramatic impact on their lives, and the hospitality is unmatched and inspiring.

Consider joining a team today, your life will never be the same.  It is said that one’s treasures are most valuable when they are those of the Kingdom of GOD.  Where does your treasure lay?

Frequently Asked Questions about Puerto Rico Serve Trips:

Who can go?
Just about anyone! Individuals, couples, families, retired persons, members of Church of the Resurrection and non-members alike. The minimum age is 18, and all trip participants must complete the Safe Gatherings online course.

What skills do I need?
The most important skills are a desire to serve God while working side-by-side with Puerto Ricans; to be a team player; and to be flexible for whatever comes our way. You don’t have to know Spanish (you will certainly learn a few new words and key phrases) or construction: you just need a big heart and willingness to serve.

What projects will we work on?
We strive to work on projects that are deemed of most importance to our local partners, but most likely we will be working on light construction alongside our partners from the Samuel Culpeper Methodist Church.

What does the cost cover?
The cost per person includes housing, meals, in-country transportation, insurance, gasoline, construction costs, local labor, cultural day activity and food, donation to the local trip administration.  Airfare will be booked after the trip has closed and will be added to your total trip cost.

What’s not included?
Personal expenses, souvenirs, extended travel past the official trip conclusion.

Are there any discounts?
Yes! There are two ways to receive a $100 discount (and they can be combined!): apply before the Early Application deadline; AND/OR be a repeat Resurrection trip participant.

How do I get to San Juan, Puerto Rico?
Global Impact Ministries will reserve airline tickets so that the team travels together.  Your airfare is tax-deductible and will be added to your total trip cost in our online team portal, Managed Missions.

Where do we stay?
Team members stay at the Arecibo Methodist Campsite.  Approximately 1.15 hours west of San Juan, where the team will be spending the week.  The campsite has 2 bunk rooms with 35 bunkbeds each (separated by gender), indoor plumbing, a large indoor dining pavilion, chapel, tropical trees, and much more.

Will we get to see the beach?
If all goes as planned, yes! Both Hatillo and Aresibo are located on the Northwest side of the island minutes from the Atlantic Ocean. On our last day (Saturday), and on our return to the San Juan area, we will travel to El Morro and Old San Juan, a beautiful destination rich in history, beautiful landscape, restaurants and much more. Afterwards we will head to the airport to head home.

Is Puerto Rico safe?
Puerto Rico is safe, as with any tourist destination, there are cases of petty crime and driving can be a challenge.  Generally, outside the capital of San Juan, the country resembles a clean, tropical, laid-back place.

I have some questions that aren’t listed here.
Please feel free to send an email to Don Dunning at dunningdm@outlook.com.  Don is our context leader that oversees our partnership with Puerto Rico.

YOUTHRIVE is a nonprofit organization that is focused on empowering and supporting our foster youth as they transition to adulthood.

Our goal is to broadly engage our community to help equip and support the local youth that are transitioning out of foster care.

Our most critical ongoing need is for adult and family volunteers to serve as Support Families for one of the young people in our program. Attend Support Family training on June 16 from 9-3.

Our Truck Ministry supports multiple local impact ministries. Without our team of dedicated drivers our ministries would not be able to operate at the level we do. Our drivers support hunger, clothing, computers, furnishings,  education and much more.

BECOME A HOLY HAULER FOR FURNISHINGS MINISTRY

Holy Haulers are the team of guys and gals who pick up donations from individuals and corporations. Vehicles range from minivans to large box trucks. Drive at your own comfort level. Join a weekday, weeknight or Saturday morning team, serving weekly, bi-weekly or on a monthly rotation. Inquiries please contact Larry Tolin at lindlt@gmail.com.  

BECOME A BACKPACK DRIVER FOR EDUCATION MINISTRY

• Pick-up Empty Tubs: Tuesdays 7 am - 1 pm from Elementary Schools. Requires moderate lifting and possibly driving the church's box truck. Contact Bruce Gaddis at deliveryteam@cor.org
• Deliver Food: Fridays 8 am - 12 pm to Elementary Schools. Requires lifting and possibly driving the church's box truck. Contact Bruce Gaddis at deliveryteam@cor.org

DELIVER TO FOOD PANTRIES FOR HUNGER MINISTRY

Our TRUCK drivers must comply with DOT regulations and the following requirements must be met:

• Successful completion of a background check (if you are Safe Gatherings certified, this will substitute for a background check): click here to download the form.
• Successful completion of the Motor Vehicle Record: click here to download the form
• Current automobile liability insurance and valid drivers license.
• Successful completion of medical certification if driving trucks: click here for more information about requirements.
• Must be able to move and lift heavy items.

If you are interested in becoming driver for one of our ministries please contact michelle.vanpelt@cor.org

Join our remarkable usher team, volunteering with a smile at one of the various worship services. This important ministry involves assisting guests in finding seats, passing the notebooks and offering plates during worship. Training is provided and opportunities to serve range from once a month to each Sunday.

Do you sit in the Balcony? We especially need you to help usher. Sign up here to serve as a Balcony Usher.

Explore the many opportunities available for partnering with Hondurans to transform their communities.  Each trip has a purpose, some of which are listed below:

• Bless the School — Light construction and painting to keep the school in good condition.
• Bless the Youth —  Engage with youth in sports activities and develop meaningful friendships.
• Bless the Teachers — Be a part of equipping teachers with resources and lessons to teach English and the Word of God. Teaching English creates bonds between people of different cultures and is life-changing for both.
• Medical and Dental – Provide needed care for the community.
• Cultural immersion – In addition to engaging with teachers and students, each trip includes time to explore.

2019 Trips:

• Health Education Serve Trip: January 3-10, 2019
• Downtown Men's Serve Trip: January 18-25, 2019
• Medical Serve Trip: Februrary 9-16, 2019
• Bless the School: June 1-8, 2019
• Bless the School : July 20-27, 2019

About Honduras

Honduras, located in Central America between Guatemala and Nicaragua, is a country of mountains, forests and farms. There are more than 7 million people living in this country, which is about the size of Louisiana. Most Honduras speak Spanish, although the Amerindian/mestizo population may speak other Spanish dialects. English is widely spoken in the north. Resurrection teams usually fly into the capital city of Tegucigalpa, and some take a day to visit the Maya ruins at Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Honduras is one of the poorest regions in Central America; its economy is primarily agricultural and the annual per capital income is about $2,500 USD.

Resurrection partners with the Methodist Church in Honduras, working mostly with the Methodist Church in El Obraje and the Cristo Resucitado Methodist Church in Ciudad España.

Honduran Coffee

Through our partnership with the Methodist Church of Honduras, we sell Honduran coffee at The Spring, our coffee shop at Resurrection Leawood. Purchasing this coffee helps transform Honduran communities by:

• Helping Hondurans gain economic stability
• Supporting the first Methodist School in Honduras
• Raising awareness for our partnership activities in Honduras

The coffee, which is Rainforest Alliance Certified, is produced with sustainable agricultural practices to help conserve natural resources, ecosystems and wildlife, preserve worker's rights and benefits, and create a positive impact on the local community.

Coffee grown in the shade of the forest canopy protects the plants from rain and sun, helps maintain the soil quality and reduces need for insect control because a greater number of natural wildlife live in the habitat.

Due to increasing demand for coffee, many traditional farms have converted to sun growth plantations where the tropical forest is cut down, producing a higher yield for the short-term, but also greater soil erosion and pesticide use.

School Sponsorship

For just $37.50/month ($450/year) you can provide a child with a private faith-based school education at the Juan Wesley School in Ciudad España. This amount will provide tuition, books and materials and a school uniform for your sponsored child. Your child will be able to write to you each year to tell you about their progress, and they will be monitored to assure that they achieve the school's academic goals.

Child sponsors who join a short-term serve team to Honduras have opportunities to meet the child they sponsor, interact with other Juan Wesley students and support the school. Learn more or sponsor a child by downloading and filling out this form.

To learn about other ways Resurrection is partnering with Hondurans, visit our blog.

The Church of the Resurrection has been in relationship with local, African church leaders for more than 10 years. We began sending serve teams to Africa in 1998, through two partnerships associated with the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. To learn more about how Resurrection is supporting South Africa, visit our blog.

2018 Trips:

• Spring Break Family Serve Trip: March 9-18; ; TRIP IS FULL
• Children, Education, and Light Construction: June 22 - July 1; TRIP IS FULL

The Clerpine Circuit

The Methodist Church of Southern Africa envisions a Christ-healed Africa. Methodist Churches in the country of South Africa are clustered into circuits, and The Church of the Resurrection partners with the Clerpine Circuit to build churches for and with impoverished congregations within that circuit. The Clerpine Circuit consists of 23 congregations served by 11 pastors. In partnership with local South African church communities, Resurrection has assisted in the construction of five church buildings, including Thornwood, Mariannridge, Emmaus, Nazareth and Samungu. We are currently in the process of partnering with two additional church communities, KwaDabeka and Ekuphileni, as they construct their church buildings. These churches are all a part of the Nehemiah Project, which is supported by the Clerpine Circuit. Each one of these church buildings is used to uplift the community. Thornwood has a drop-in center for child-headed households; Mariannridge and Emmaus have preschools. Resurrection also partners with the Clerpine Circuit to support children, youth and adult programs, including vacation Bible camps, youth leadership training and adult education conferences and events.

About South Africa

South Africa, at the southernmost tip of the African continent, has a diverse population and a democratic government; it is still recovering from years of lost education and economic opportunity from the decades of race-based apartheid. Despite thriving mining and high-tech industries, South Africa still struggles with high unemployment as well as the health care burden of the AIDS epidemic.

There are a mix of languages and religions in South Africa, but Christianity is the main religion in most of sub-Saharan Africa. There are actually three capitals in South Africa - Bloemfontein, Cape Town, and Pretoria - but Resurrection teams most often travel in and out of the country's largest city, Johannesburg. Teams usually serve in Mooiplaas, in the Gauteng Province southwest of Pretoria; teams may help students and staff at the Ditshego preschool, help teachers learn basic computer skills, or teach basic preventive health care.

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS 

Join us the second and fourth Tuesday of each month as we explore serving opportunities in our local mission ministries. Location, time and age limits vary: please check carefully. Childcare is available (pre-registration is required here).

Summer 2018

Tuesday June 26: Pack sack lunches for several local ministries, 6:30-8pm, Building A Lower Level Missions Space

My Father's House Furnishes Hope to those in need by collecting, preparing and distributing donated furnishings and home essentials, transforming the lives of program participants, donors and servants into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. We seek to offer a 'hand up' by meeting the household furnishings needs in Kansas City's urban and suburban communities through donated resources.

Resurrection's Furnishings Ministry seeks to ensure that no child or adult has to live in a home without adequate furniture, and to lead the effort in recycling usable household furnishings.

Please visit the Furnishings Ministry page for details.

You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.