Nobody Greater

I spent last week as a volunteer for an annual week-long performing arts youth workshop.  I was one of 8 women on the Volunteer Committee charged with ensuring there were enough volunteers to monitor dorms and classrooms, escort youth on campus, serve meals, supervise activities, and assist whereever needed with our 300+ youth participants. 

I thoroughly enjoyed working with some truly special ladies: Connie, Tiffany, Daphne, Linda, Karen, Barb, and Gwen.  I'm blessed to have known 2 of them since junior high (or middle school in today's vernacular).  Tiffany's exuberant personality helped the Committee in maintaining high energy throughout the week. The Committee bonded so well together that we purchased matching shoes to wear with our program t-shirts! 

The Volunteer Committee worked efficiently and effectively in coordinating the collective effort of over 100 volunteers.  We provided everyone who interacted with us with plenty of laughter and fellowship to counteract the stress generated by 300+ youth AND 90 degree weather.  The camraderie the Committee shared, along with Krispy Kreme donuts, candy, fresh fruit, homemade cakes, and beverages, prompted staff and volunteers to take their breaks in our room.  No doubt about it - our room (Block 105) - was THE place to be!    

The staff, instructors, and the Volunteer Committee prayed daily for God's anointing over the Workshop.  We especially prayed for Ms. Dolly, who had been with the workshop since it's inception and is fighting a battle against cancer.  Yesterday was the culmination of everyone's endeavor as the participants performed a free concert for the community.  God answered our prayers as Ms. Dolly was able to attend the program after having major surgery just a few days earlier.  Also, our local mayor attended the performance and proclamed July 24, 2011 as "Youth Excellence Performing Arts Workshop Day!" 

Our youth proudly sang praise songs, danced, stepped, performed in the orchestra, showcased their personal art and newsletter, and signed to an appreciative audience.  The closing song, Nobody Greater, was a magnificent end to a splendid day.  Nobody greater than God could have kept this workshop going that started with 75 local youth over 20 years and has spread in recent years to as many as 500 from around the country!  To God be the glory, honor and praise!  There's nobody greater!