Bernie’s Story: My Serving Journey
When people think about serving in church, they often imagine someone on stage, leading worship or preaching. But the truth is, the church thrives because of countless faithful people like Bernie working behind the scenes.
Bernie often serves as part of our visuals team on a Sunday morning.
— By Bernie Gordon
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to serve at Citygate in various ways, each involvement arising from different circumstances. My journey with the Visuals team began quite simply—an announcement was made during a Sunday meeting asking for volunteers, and I felt prompted to respond. In other instances, someone approached me directly, knowing there was a need I could help meet. I was once invited to join the finance team—probably because of my head for numbers—and after COVID, that role naturally evolved into administrative work - like processing our Connect Cards - especially as we were no longer handling physical offerings.
So why did I say yes? Honestly, I always just saw the need. I had experience doing similar roles in my previous church and knew I could help. I didn’t feel like I had to be the best or the most qualified, just willing. And while I wasn’t really nervous about starting serving (because I’d done it before), I did feel a bit apprehensive when I was asked to lead the Visuals team. I’ve always seen myself more as a team player than a leader. But even then, I trusted that if God had enabled me to do the work before, He could do it again.
From the moment I became a Christian at 15, I understood that the church is a body, each part serving the other. For me it’s essential, not just to support others, but for my own spiritual growth. I’ve learnt that we are all different with different gifts, we can't all do everything. We need to be humble and be prepared to do the lowliest of tasks, often without recognition. Sometimes God gifts you for a season, to serve in a certain capacity, in a certain situation.
Being part of a big church like Citygate can feel overwhelming at times, but serving has helped me build close-knit relationships within smaller teams. One of the unexpected joys has been encouraging younger members of the visuals team. The Visuals role can be a bit solo by nature, but I’ve loved seeing others grow into it - especially Joe, who now leads the Southbourne Team. Watching people step up and take ownership of their gifts is one of the most rewarding parts of serving.
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing! Computers can freeze at the worst moments, we don’t get the worship setlist until late, and sometimes team members forget to mention they can’t do their rota slot until the very last minute! But I’ve learnt that preparation and communication makes everything more straightforward, and that you can’t control everything. Oh - and trying to read handwriting on Connect Cards? That’s a skill in itself!
To anyone who’s unsure, too busy, or feeling unqualified, I’d encourage you to just give it a try! Many roles only require a commitment once a month, and you might be surprised by how God uses you once you take that first step. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just be willing. He’ll do the rest.
I believe serving is one of the best ways to feel truly part of the church. It’s easy to attend on Sundays, but when you start playing your part, the church stops being a place you go and becomes a family you belong to. Scripture is full of encouragements to serve (like 1 Peter 4:10 or Ephesians 6:7), and it’s not just about filling gaps, it’s about being faithful with what we’ve been given.
If you’re thinking, “I’d rather not be in the spotlight,” let me reassure you: there are so many “behind-the-scenes” roles that are just as vital. Whether you’re technical, creative, admin-minded, or just willing, there’s a place for you. For me, the biggest blessing has simply been being able to say yes, and to know that by God’s grace, I’m still able to serve.
So if you’re on the fence, take the step. You never know what God might do through your yes.