Christmas at Emerald Crest
December 27, 2016
When I asked our memory care residents at Emerald Crest what we do to prepare for company at the holidays, many said, “clean the house!” or “make sure there is room for everyone.” Darkness comes early in winter and we need light to help us prepare for the holidays. With a handmade Advent wreath and candles, I show the residents the bright circle of light, how it lights the way to prepare for God’s love in Christ. In turn, those same lights will continue to shine through the darkness after Christmas and the darkness does not overcome it (John 1:5). As we celebrate Jesus Emmanuel, God-with-us in Epiphany, the Earth leans back toward the sun after Christmas. Slowly, the light returns.
Even though some of those wonderful holiday memories have gone dark and are lost to the slow encroachment of memory loss, the light does shine in our worship at our house. We have an interactive worship and communion at all 4 Emerald Crest locations houses every week. We sing familiar hymns, we say prayers and verses many residents know by heart and have learned in childhood. Communion and a brief sermon-story are provided to stimulate the senses and support cognitive function. All this in a comfortable intimate setting, often in front of the warm glowing fireplace on these cold winter days. Many a resident brightens and glows when these familiar hymns are sung and prayers are said, especially at this blessed time of year. Please join us with your loved one, and let your light and warmth so shine, with us!
Rev. Lette Gamble
At Emerald Crest, we offer a deep knowledge of memory care in a specialized assisted living setting for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related conditions. We encourage you to contact us directly with any questions or request a tour.
