Reflections on Spiritual Care. July 2015
July 20, 2015
Witnessing the change of seasons is one of the most beautiful aspects of living here in Minnesota. Every season has its stirring beauty, from the vibrant greens of spring, to the silvery hot sunny days of summer, to the fiery colors of cool autumn days. Even winter, the longest (and sometimes most dreaded) season in Minnesota has its unique beauty; crystal blue skies and sparkling snowy covered landscapes. Even downtown buildings in the heart of the city look magical with a thick frosting of fresh snow.
As a pastor to those with dementia, when I begin our worship service in the living rooms of each house I visit, I point out the weather of the day through our large living room window. I ask the residents what they see and they answer as they are able; most remark about some aspect of the season. They remark on the colors they see, the white snow, the grey clouds, the green grass and plants, the bright, colorful flowers. Sometimes they spot birds or a squirrel which always delights us.
The seasons remind us that all things around us change in regular rhythm, and it returns to what is once was in the beginning of the cycle. Such is the rhythm of aging. Time passes and we grow, age, and then return to what we once were; dependant on others for our daily guidance. Our job here at Emerald Crest to remind our residents that they are cared for, that they have meaningful activities despite these changes, and they are not alone. Our God is a God who is eternal loving and changeless, despite the changes of the seasons, or the changes of our loved one’s health, intellect and activity as they age. Everything has a rhythm, everything changes, yet there is an eternal God who never does, and that eternal love enfolds us in a constant embrace.
Rev. Lette Gamble is the Chaplain to all four Emerald Crest locations. Chaplain Lette attended the University of Minnesota and Luther Seminary and trained at Augustana Care center and Methodist Hospital. After her recent ordination, she was called to a large parish in Burnsville where she served on the spiritual care team for prayer and older-adult ministries. Chaplain Lette provides worship services, communion, one to one visits and devotions at Emerald Crest and also provides support for family members and staff. “It is a privilege to serve and support older adults at Emerald Crest,” she says.
The spiritual care program at Emerald Crest is 100% supported by Augustana Care’s Spiritual Care Fund. We appreciate those that have supported the fund through contributions over the past few years. If you are interested in supporting the continued efforts both Lette and Augustana Care provide to Emerald Crest Residents please email mowens@augustanacare.org for more information.
