I’m Joe, the Waumba Land Bible Storyteller, and I’ve been serving since 2017. I first came to a Waumba Land interest meeting because I heard there was a need for volunteers, and when I found out about it, I jumped in! I'm a high school sports announcer, so when I went to learn about Waumba Land and they heard my voice, they thought I'd be a great fit for The Playhouse team. I’m so glad they did, because ever since then, I’ve been showing up every Sunday, ready to bring the Bible to life for the preschoolers.
Every week, I take the stage with the same routine: I hop on stage facing the wrong direction and start calling out for my friends. The preschoolers go wild, giggling and shouting, “Joe, we’re here!” It’s one of the best parts of my day. I also volunteer for every Playhouse Family Show, and I’m always ready to wear whatever costume is needed. During the pandemic, I made videos from home, playing tennis, basketball, and other activities, all while asking the kids about the cool things they were doing at home.
On any given Sunday, you can find me causing a traffic jam in Waumba Land. The preschoolers line up just to give me a high five as they head to their rooms. They even bring me pictures, cards, and Valentines they’ve drawn just for me. One of my most special memories is when I attended a “Grandparents Day” event with a Waumba Land family who didn’t have a grandparent nearby.
As much as the preschoolers love me, I’m equally supported and encouraged by the incredible volunteers I work with. I always arrive on Sunday with the joke of the day, delivered with my love of storytelling. The team is amazing, and I’m grateful to serve alongside them. I’m proud to be “Mr. Joe,” and I can’t imagine a better place to share the love of God with these kids.
You are Made For More, too. Volunteering in our church is one way you can discover the more you are made for. Ready to find out what you were made for?
