Volunteering In The Nursery
Finding Home and Purpose: Maria’s Change Maker Story
Maria shares her story of how volunteering in the nursery has made such a huge impact……
When Maria Meza and her husband first walked through the doors of Eastside Christian Church in February 2024, they were looking for more than just a place to attend on Sundays. They were searching for a church to call home. From the very beginning, they sensed that Eastside was where they wanted to plant roots, build community, and grow in their faith.
Not long after they began attending, Maria felt a gentle but persistent nudge toward serving. “Almost immediately, I felt a tug on my heart to be involved and to give back in any way I could,” she shares. By their second visit, that calling became clear. God was inviting her into children’s ministry, a space that already held a special place in her heart.
“I’ve always loved kids,” Maria says. “Their innocence, their pure and unconditional love, and the way they see the world with such openness.” What began as a simple yes quickly became one of the most meaningful parts of her church experience.
Over the past year, Maria has had a front-row seat to countless small, sacred moments: babies taking their first steps, shy little ones slowly finding their courage, and children who once cried at drop-off now running into the classroom with excitement. “Watching them grow in the most beautiful ways has been such a gift,” she reflects.
What Maria loves most isn’t just seeing children develop physically, but watching their emotional and social growth as well. “It’s incredible to witness their confidence grow—to see them become more expressive, joyful, and comfortable just being themselves,” she says. Each week, she sees how consistency, care, and love create an environment where children can truly thrive.
But the impact of her service doesn’t stop with the kids. Maria also finds deep purpose in supporting parents. “It’s a blessing to give parents the space to worship, breathe, and grow in Christ, knowing their children are being cared for and loved just as God loves them,” she explains. In this way, her role reaches far beyond the nursery – it becomes a gift to entire families.
Maria’s story is a beautiful reminder that serving isn’t about filling a need, it’s about discovering where your heart and God’s purpose intersect. What began as a simple tug on her heart has become a place of deep joy, connection, and belonging.
As Eastside enters another season of inviting people into serving, Maria’s journey encourages us all to listen for that gentle nudge and take a step forward. Sometimes, the place you’re meant to serve becomes the place you feel most at home.
Did you know our volunteers are called Change Makers? They are the heroes around here, making a difference every week. Volunteering at Eastside is a powerful way to use your time and experience to have a positive impact. Visit eastside.com/volunteer to see how you can get started.
These amazing Change Makers partner with parents to build into kids’ lives, speak hope, and provide encouragement to each child and student. Our monthly curriculum focuses on godly values like honesty, courage, and kindness – qualities every parent wants their child and student to develop.
This approach gives families an immediate point of entry—especially for those new to church and Bible stories. When we say THIS IS FOR EVERYONE, we mean everyone and every age! Learn more about our kidside curriculum at eastside.com/kids. We have specific programs for ages birth through young adults and you can learn more at eastside.com/nextgen.
Do you have a Change Maker who’s made a difference in your child’s life? We’d love to hear about it! Please click on the “SHARE YOUR STORY” button at eastside.com/stories.