An Evening of Gratitude - Mount Carmel Guild’s Volunteer Reception Honors Mission Heroes

On a beautiful spring evening, Mount Carmel Guild revived an important tradition: a formal Volunteer Appreciation Reception to honor the incredible volunteers who help power its mission each day.

Held in the Matthew and Mark Room of St. James Parish, Pennington - this was the first volunteer reception of its kind in quite some time. Last July, the Guild hosted a smaller appreciation gathering on-site, where volunteers were issued personalized certificates of appreciation. 

Dozens of volunteers filled the parish hall, enjoying a delicious spread of refreshments, and the company of friends old and new. The air buzzed with laughter, storytelling, and heartfelt connection which was a reflection of the Guild’s deeply rooted sense of family.

It was however the sobering keynote delivered by Daniel Waddington, Director of the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at the Diocese of Trenton, that was the highlight of the evening. Waddington spoke passionately about volunteerism as a Christian calling, reminding everyone that their work is not just helpful, but holy.

“You are the hands and feet of Christ,” Waddington said, his words resonating deeply. “In every moment you serve - whether stocking food, visiting the sick, or comforting a neighbor - you are living out the call to love.”

Executive Director, Mary Inkrot offered her own words of thanks, saying, “Without you, there is no Guild. You are the lifeblood of our mission. Tonight, we are simply here to honor you and say: thank you.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Bishop’s Delegate Brenda Rascher who offered prayer and assistant executive director, Daren Miller who gave the official welcome.

The room sparkled with appreciation, not just for tasks completed, but for the heart and faith each person brings to the Guild. As the evening closed, guests lingered in warm conversation, sharing hugs and laughter. The reception, organized by the Guild’s Development Committee, wasn’t just a thank-you event; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of service that keeps Mount Carmel Guild thriving.