Blooming with Purpose

If you've admired the colorful flowers and welcoming gardens surrounding NCC, you've seen the loving work of Doreen Quinn. For several years, Doreen has faithfully planted, watered, weeded, and cared for the church's gardens, creating a beautiful first impression for everyone who visits. For Doreen, tending the gardens began as a simple way to give back. " I was inspired to begin caring for the gardens at church as a way to give back to the community and to provide a welcoming exterior for the congregation," she shared. Over the past four years, the gardens have become much more than flower beds. They have become a place of connection, reflection, and joy. "What I enjoy most about working in the church gardens is the people stopping by to chat and the beauty of tending to the earth, " Doreen said. Like many gardeners, Doreen finds peace in watching new life grow.

Whether planting seasonal flowers, pulling weeds, or watering on a warm summer day, she sees gardening as both meaningful work and a source of renewal. "I am always excited when it comes to gardening projects of any kind. Working in the dirt, watching things grow, is so therapeutic for me."

Doreen has been part of the NCC family for about five years, and she says the church has been a true blessing in her life. Volunteering has given her much more than an opportunity to care for the grounds; it has given her purpose and a sense of belonging. "Volunteering at church means so much to me," she reflected. "It offers a deeply fulfilling way to give back." When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering, she offered a heartfelt, encouraging response. "I would highly recommend to anyone thinking about volunteering at the church to do so. It has been life-changing for me in so many ways. A sense of purpose, community, belonging- I could go on and on." Doreen's dedication reminds us that ministry takes many forms. Sometimes it looks like planting flowers, pulling weeds, or watering on a summer morning. Those quiet acts of service create a welcoming space where everyone who walks through our doors feels the care and love of this church community.

Thank you, Doreen, for sharing your time, your talents, and your heart with your church family. Your faithful care helps our church bloom, both inside and out.

Your friendly neighborhood church administrator,

Jeremy