Missions and Ministry
Why Playgroup Matters to Me
By Colleen Fuller
I love my “job” as Children’s Director. One of the great joys I see in the life of our church is the way Playgroup creates space for families to feel welcomed, known and supported. It is a relaxed and friendly place where parents, carers and children can come as they are, enjoy time together, and begin building meaningful connections with others.
For many families, Playgroup is more than a weekly activity. It can be a first point of friendship if they are new to Hervey Bay, a place of encouragement for those who are new to parenting, or a gentle doorway into the wider church community. Our spacious indoor and outdoor areas give children room to explore and play, while adults have time to talk, laugh, share stories and realise they are not alone.
It has been encouraging to hear local families describe Playgroup as warm, friendly and welcoming. We have even seen it recommended on community Facebook pages, which tells us that people are experiencing a genuine connection when they come.
At the heart of Playgroup is a wonderful team of volunteers. They greet people warmly, notice new faces, help families settle in, listen with care, and create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable returning. I am especially thankful for the parents from our church who attend, build friendships with community families, and invite their own friends along. These natural relationships are one of the reasons Playgroup has such a meaningful place in our church’s ministry.
One parent enjoyed Playgroup so much that she continued coming as a volunteer even after her children had started school. That kind of commitment says a lot about the sense of belonging and purpose that can grow through this ministry.
Another beautiful thing has been seeing some parents from Playgroup begin coming to church and attending a Life Group. It is such a privilege to watch relationships grow naturally and to see families finding deeper connection within our church community.
Playgroup also gives us opportunities to offer practical care and gentle support. When families need extra help, we can connect them with appropriate support pathways, including our church COACH program and other professional services in the community. Sometimes that support is as simple as a conversation over morning tea; at other times, it becomes a deeper expression of care.
We have seen this in very real ways. When one young parent received a cancer diagnosis, the Playgroup community responded with prayer, meals and practical help. Moments like this show the depth of connection that can grow when people are given a safe and welcoming place to belong.
This is why I would love to invite more people to consider being involved. Playgroup is a simple but powerful way to bless families in our community. You do not need to have all the answers or a special qualification to make a difference. A warm smile, a listening ear, a willingness to help set up and pack away, pray for families, or simply be a friendly presence can mean so much.
If you are looking for a practical, welcoming and meaningful way to serve in Playgroup, I would love you to come and chat to me or email me at colleen@hbbc.com.au.
Jobs Board
I love my “job” as Children’s Director. One of the great joys I see in the life of our church is the way Playgroup creates space for families to feel welcomed, known and supported. It is a relaxed and friendly place where parents, carers and children can come as they are, enjoy time together, and begin building meaningful connections with others.
For many families, Playgroup is more than a weekly activity. It can be a first point of friendship if they are new to Hervey Bay, a place of encouragement for those who are new to parenting, or a gentle doorway into the wider church community. Our spacious indoor and outdoor areas give children room to explore and play, while adults have time to talk, laugh, share stories and realise they are not alone.
It has been encouraging to hear local families describe Playgroup as warm, friendly and welcoming. We have even seen it recommended on community Facebook pages, which tells us that people are experiencing a genuine connection when they come.
At the heart of Playgroup is a wonderful team of volunteers. They greet people warmly, notice new faces, help families settle in, listen with care, and create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable returning. I am especially thankful for the parents from our church who attend, build friendships with community families, and invite their own friends along. These natural relationships are one of the reasons Playgroup has such a meaningful place in our church’s ministry.
One parent enjoyed Playgroup so much that she continued coming as a volunteer even after her children had started school. That kind of commitment says a lot about the sense of belonging and purpose that can grow through this ministry.
Another beautiful thing has been seeing some parents from Playgroup begin coming to church and attending a Life Group. It is such a privilege to watch relationships grow naturally and to see families finding deeper connection within our church community.
Playgroup also gives us opportunities to offer practical care and gentle support. When families need extra help, we can connect them with appropriate support pathways, including our church COACH program and other professional services in the community. Sometimes that support is as simple as a conversation over morning tea; at other times, it becomes a deeper expression of care.
We have seen this in very real ways. When one young parent received a cancer diagnosis, the Playgroup community responded with prayer, meals and practical help. Moments like this show the depth of connection that can grow when people are given a safe and welcoming place to belong.
This is why I would love to invite more people to consider being involved. Playgroup is a simple but powerful way to bless families in our community. You do not need to have all the answers or a special qualification to make a difference. A warm smile, a listening ear, a willingness to help set up and pack away, pray for families, or simply be a friendly presence can mean so much.
If you are looking for a practical, welcoming and meaningful way to serve in Playgroup, I would love you to come and chat to me or email me at colleen@hbbc.com.au.
Jobs Board
Posted in Missions & Ministry