Meredith and Justin Jacobsen have recently jumped in and found their places volunteering within ministries. They have been married for 8 years, and have attended Farmington Heights for over 6 years. They have a daughter, Kinsey, who is 6 years old, and a son, Edward, who is 4.

The Jacobsens were still early in their marriage when they began attending Farmington Heights, and were beginning to plan adding children into their family! They say that they were very impressed with the children's ministry, from the nursery on up to the teenagers. The family got to experience the children's ministry first-hand after they had their own children.

The husband and wife team are now involved in volunteering in the nursery as well as the Polar Point Kids class. When asked why they decided to help with the kids, Meredith stated, "We were so impressed with the level of commitment from the volunteers that is wasn't hard to find motivation for ourselves. And when you see people like Pastor Ginger and Brenda and Joe Davis working almost every Sunday, giving so much of themselves, it's pretty inspiring."

When they first began to volunteer, they thought that they would help in the classes that their own children participated in, seeing it as their duty. But as time has passed, they have discovered joy in working with children that are different ages from their children. They enjoy letting Kinsey and Edward get to know their own teachers and learn without clinging to their parents. The Jacobsens also love getting to know other children in the church.

Though they started out just helping, Meredith and Justin have teamed up with Leigh Woodruff and are now teaching in Polar Point. Meredith talks of the rewards of their service. "I love hearing about the children's week, and their prayer concerns. They never fail to suprise me! I love hearing their child-like interpretation of the bible." And about the 18 month to 3 year olds in the nursery, Meredith says," I LOVE it when those sweet kids come in and recognize me, and give me a hug! They are on the very beginning of their journey in learning about God, and I love being a part of it!"

The enthusiasm of the Jacobsens is plain to see! Stepping up and getting plugged in to a ministry is exciting! If you are interested in getting involved and giving of yourself, there are lots of ministries that can use your time and your talent! Check out the ministry information centers located in the main hallway near Guest Services and beside the choir room. There is a place for you!