It’s about putting love into action

Denis Sabourin took a leap of faith when he signed up to volunteer with Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) ten years ago.

He was introduced to the organization in 2014 when a group of weekly volunteers received an outgoing blessing at his church, The Meeting Place, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The introduction piqued Sabourin’s interest so much that he jumped on an opportunity to join them and helped with an MDS flood response in High River, Alberta that same year.

“I really enjoyed the first trip and couldn’t stop,” he said.

Sabourin became the MDS representative to his congregation a year later. As Church Contact Person, he organized more than a dozen weekly service trips for The Meeting Place at MDS disaster sites across Canada and the U.S. — and attended all of them too.

The organization’s approach to Christian service resonates deeply with Sabourin. It’s about faith with works, he said.

Recently, Sabourin retired from his day job and made his way to an MDS project a few days later. He joined a Volunteer Team for the final month of a 2022 flood response in eastern Kentucky.

Serving as Office Manager, Sabourin coordinates the response’s finances, communications and hospitality.

“My favourite part is meeting all of the volunteers and making sure that their stay is enjoyable,” he said.

It’s always a thrill to hear homeowner stories, Sabourin added. “It’s very empowering for volunteers and the leadership here to be told that they’re appreciated and to be told they’re called angels.”

Coming into someone’s backyard and helping them rebuild or clean up after disaster is love in action, he reflected.

On his 19th volunteer placement, Sabourin shows no signs of slowing down in retirement. After wrapping up in eastern Kentucky, he anticipates filling more long-term volunteer roles with MDS. His next assignment is already confirmed in Shuswap Lake, British Columbia — with more opportunities on the horizon.

“There’s something satisfying about doing what you’re called to do,” Sabourin said.

Nikki Hamm Gwala, MDS Canada Communications