The Power of Together: A Profile of Penny Young

The Power of Together: A Profile of Penny Young

Penny Young has been an active part of Christ Church Glendale since 2008. Her 18 years of faith-based volunteer service within the Episcopal Church include roles such as Music Librarian for the Parish & Bell Choirs and Senior Warden from 2016 to 2018. However, it was the Stephen Ministry that served as the primary link between her previous experience and her new life at CCG. "This was a ministry I was familiar with in my previous congregation—a program that helps people one-on-one, which has both meaning and credibility for me." So, why does she choose to volunteer in the church? Because someone asked!

Finding Joy in Church Volunteer Opportunities

Penny is inspired in her community volunteer work by her passion for addressing the needs of those around her. She recalls her favorite quote by Helen Keller: "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." The satisfaction of helping solve someone's problem through her service not only fosters community at the church but also strengthens her own faith.  "We can pursue a spiritual life on our own," she observes, "but only by being part of something larger can we fully realize our potential to be Christ's presence in a hurting world."

A Week of Respite: Local Community Outreach

Some of Penny's most impactful memories come from her involvement with IHN (Found House). This local church ministry, in connection with CCG, offered temporary housing for families in need for a week. Penny recalls watching the families drive away on Sunday mornings. Despite her concerns about their future journeys, she felt a sense of fulfillment in knowing the outreach service had provided them with a soft place to land, if only for a week. For Penny, this was a deeply meaningful accomplishment.

Seasons of Change in Christian Ministry

Spending 18 years with any organization allows one to witness its evolution. At Christ Church Glendale, church ministries have come and gone as the congregation adapts to an ever-changing world and the broader traditions of the Anglican Church. While Penny acknowledges that these transitions can be painful, she sees them as a vital sign of life. By leaning into a "spiritual foundation and genuine friendliness," the church continues to create new opportunities to serve. Although specific tasks may change, the goal remains the same: working together to be Christ's presence in a hurting world.

On any given Sunday, you'll find Penny engaged in numerous tasks around Christ Church Glendale. She might be reading from the book of Acts, offering the Eucharist, or singing with the choir. Ultimately, her favorite part of serving the community is sharing laughter with fellow parishioners along the way.