You can’t miss them Sunday mornings in their bright red shirts, shuttling back and forth in golf carts from the Iowa Street parking garage to church, giving rides to those with limited mobility as well as anyone who just wants to hop on. 

All Saints’ Golf Cart Ministry is vital to many. Because the church has limited parking space due to its downtown location, the garage is often the closest option for parking for those driving in for services. The golf carts make it an easier trip. 

 

“For the ones who use it regularly, they love it,” says David Fernandez, who coordinates the ministry for the church. “The nice thing about it is, we are often the first to see folks and the last to see folks. You only get one first impression. We want to put on the best face we possibly can.”

David joined the ministry when he first came to All Saints’ in 2014. At the time, he says, there were only six men involved. He immediately went to work to double that number. 

“I was strong in getting more people involved,” he says. “We work 52 weeks a year and some of the men were getting burned out. The same people who are doing the carts also serve as stewards, kitchen help, sextons, and in other areas of the church.” 

David himself is a steward and serves on the Outreach Committee. 

Today, the 12 men of the ministry rotate Sundays to work a shift from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.  They also work special events at church throughout the year when they know there will be a large attendance. 

In addition to providing transportation, David says the Golf Cart Ministry has another important function. 

“We also provide extra eyes and ears when we’re outside. We are lookouts, so to speak, and can provide a little more security if we notice something unusual.” 

Want more information? If you are interested in joining the golf cart team, contact David at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

~ Diane Hurles