Brian Trinque
Extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, Knights of Columbus, Nursery, Parish office volunteer
Parishioner since spring 2006
Economics professor, University of Texas
- What is your favorite thing about volunteering at the Cathedral?
As a volunteer, I set aside "my" agenda and seek to support others.
- What do you get out of it?
Each minute I spend as a volunteer is a minute of "real life," healing from the self-absorbed and oblivious routine I so easily slip into.
- What was one of your most rewarding experiences as a Cathedral volunteer?
It's hard to pick a single event or aspect. As a Knight, I get to work with a bunch of men whose talent and dedication are amazing and infectious. Whenever I'm at the Cathedral, whether for Mass or some other activity, I am convinced by those around me that God is at work ‘Keeping Austin Holy.’
- Why does volunteering matter?
It begins with stewardship. I am given a bunch of molecules for a period of time. God invites me to lay down my life. As I fulfill my responsibilities to pay the bills, mow the lawn, etc., I can feel rather removed from God's will. To volunteer is to follow Jesus in consciously submitting to God by serving others. Being a volunteer teaches me what it takes and what it means, in very practical terms, to be a Christian. Volunteering teaches me how to serve my students at UT and my family at home and to see everyone I meet as beloved of God.
- What are your other interests?
Hiking, reading, cooking.
- What advice would you give to a parishioner new to volunteering?
Celebrate. Being the Body of Christ is not just a metaphor of belonging to a group. God chooses to accomplish His purposes on earth through us flesh and blood and imperfect humans. Each of us can choose particular ministries and modes of participation in the Body of Christ, but, as Christians, we're already volunteers -- people who have given our lives to Christ.