(Left to right) Pat Hanson; Vera Sherman, representing the late Tom Sherman; and Karen Freeburg are the first volunteers to be honored. Pictured also are Scott Murphy and Cathy Loving, both of International Headquarters.

Temple Ambassadors Launch Recognition Awards

Volunteering to serve the community as representatives of Community of Christ is the mission of the Temple Ambassador Corps. Its desire to honor outstanding service in voluntarism led to establishment of the Temple Ambassador Service Award. On September 21, the first three recipients were honored: Karen Freeburg, Francis “Pat” Hanson, and the late Thomas Sherman.

Karen served 16 years with Church Women United as a president, regional vice president, and national vice president. She also served as a member and president of ministerial alliances in Ohio and Missouri. She led and directed camps for Skylark and Oriole Girls programs for many years and is a former chair of Temple Ambassador Corps.

Using a computer-assisted speech program, Karen shared, “I am so thankful for the Temple Ambassadors and was delighted to be president for two years. I have loved serving on our projects this year at Powell Gardens Butterfly Festival, Healthy Solutions flu shots, Community Services League Christmas store, and the Salvation Army Angel Tree.

“I feel so blessed by God to help so many in our community. I cannot talk anymore, and my breathing is not so good, either, but I am always thankful that I can still use my hands and feet in service to others.”

Pat was a charter member of the Temple Ambassador Corps. He serves on the board of directors of the Salvation Army in Independence, Missouri, and was on Independence Regional Health Center’s board of directors for several years. He is treasurer of The Groves Auxiliary and a persistent recruiter of new corps members.

“I am humbled by this recognition…,” Pat said. “I love being part of the outreach provided by our church to the larger community. My hope is that we continue to participate in projects that leave a lasting imprint.”

Tom served 15 years as director of Volunteer Services for Community of Christ International Headquarters, a position he also held as a volunteer. While he was instrumental in forming the Temple Ambassador Corps, he was not a member.

Tom’s widow, Vera, represented him. “I wish Tom could have been here today to accept this award. He was so proud of all you ambassadors and the great work and service you do for the community. Keep up the great work.”

Karen’s, Pat’s, and Tom’s names are recorded on a 30-by-40-foot plaque in the Temple foyer in Independence. The plaque has room for many more dedicated people to be honored in the future. Said Bud Sheehy, ambassador and former member of the First Presidency: “Putting this plaque in the Temple is significant. We’re breaking new ground in recognizing people’s service.”

The corps started in 1993 and has about 40 members. If you are interested in joining it or starting a group in your area, contact Cathy Loving, director of Volunteer Services, or 1-800-825-2806, ext. 2030.

—Kendra Friend reporting