CR9 Parking Lot Volunteer Spotlight

One of our values at Gateway is serving, and we are so thankful for our Parking Lot volunteers at CR9.  Today, I would like to introduce you to Harlan Hoy. Check out what he has to say about serving in the Parking Lot Ministry at CR 9.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU ATTENDED GATEWAY?...BEEN A VOLUNTEER IN GATEWAY’S FIRST IMPRESSION MINISTRIES?

Harlan Hoy and his wife Lisa have attended Gateway for 11 years. They been involved in Life Groups since the very beginning. They have lead two Crown Financial studies. The last group they led turned into a Life Group that they still lead. About five years ago, the Parking Lot Ministry was started, and Harlan joined in shortly after. He has been the Ministry Coordinator for two years.

IN WHAT CAPACITY DO YOU VOLUNTEER?

Life Group leader, parking lot attendant, VBS, Christmas Tea server, and this summer, I am going to Pikeville, KY, on a mission trip with other Gateway people.

WHY DID YOU INITIALLY VOLUNTEER TO SERVE IN THE PARKING LOT?

One of the Bible verses we learned in Joshua's Men inspired me to get started.  It is Romans 12: 9-11

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”  This verse has meant a lot to me while serving in the parking lot.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT SERVING IN THE PARKING LOT?

I enjoy being outside and greeting people. My goal is to make the parking lot safe and for traffic to flow smoothly.  The parking lot ministry is the first representative of Gateway Church that people experience at weekend services or during a special event; it is also the last one, as people leave the property. Thus, their first impression is also their last. Members of the parking lot ministry offer a smile and a wave to help everyone transition safely through a busy parking lot.

WHAT ARE SOME FAVORITE MOMENTS WHILE BEING IN THE PARKING LOT AT GATEWAY?

• Last year during VBS, there was a perfect rainbow over the church.
• Watching hot air balloons fly in and land all around the church during the balloon festival last year.
• Recently, we had some geese nesting in the parking lot, and they were upset with cars and people near them. By doing goose patrol, we were able to help keep people cars and kids away from them.
• One morning, a very distraught lady came, and I was able to pray with her and get her connected with a pastor.
• To have a young child come up and give me a "High Five" always makes my day.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING WHEN YOU ARE NOT IN THE PARKING LOT?

Lisa and I have been very blessed. We love and enjoy my parents who are in there late 80's and are in good health. Lisa is a Cleveland Indians fan while I am more into motor sports, particularly Formula 1. I enjoy riding bikes and working outside in the woods and yard.  I also enjoy working on cars in the garage. I am employed at Bridgestone and work in maintenance.