An unusual type of post for me. This one is not really personal but I wanted to write about an amazing group of folks in my church who fill an important role in our community....encouraging and ministering to those in assisted-living and nursing homes. This group is our senior adult choir named "Rejoice". I work with them because my boss is their director. Joe takes them out on a small bus once a month. They put in a full day doing this important ministry. I hope when I'm 70 or 92 years old that I can be that active and energetic! Yes, our oldest member is 92 and he's pretty amazing! Our folks are healthy and happy and sharp and they enjoy visiting with their peers in these homes.
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| Our minister of music enjoys a discussion with a resident |
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| Favorite bus driver, David! |
The 25 choir members sing 10 great hymns of the faith during their program and Joe ties each hymn together with the presentation of the gospel of Jesus. He talks about our sin, our redemption through Christ, our abundant life here on earth and then the wonderful prospect of heaven. The residents usually sing along (they have song packets that the choir brings to give out) and enjoy reciting scripture with the choir. A gospel message is given, an invitation is presented to ask Jesus into their lives and hearts, a closing prayer, and then the choir members visit with the residents and give them a gift.
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| One of my favorites! |
"Rejoice" is made very welcome in all the places they've visited in the county, not only by the residents but by their caregivers also. It is a way to share Jesus' love to those who very rarely get to church and to those who have few other visitors. Sometimes the minds are not clear in those who are listening (such as in the "memory" unit we visited the other day) but God works miracles...we never know when He will give a moment of clarity to hear His Word.
I admire and appreciate these sweet folks. I loved getting to see them work their magic this past week and see what a needed ministry this is in our community.
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| Our choir members love to sing the hymns. |
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| They never know what age "piano" they will find at some of the homes. |
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| One perk of the day is going to lunch! They like home-cooking places AND the Varsity! |
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| Which one is 92 years old? The one on the left! He's amazing. |
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| Getting ready to present their program. |
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| Listening to Joe as he presents the story of Jesus |
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| A resident holds a cross that one of our choir members made for her |
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| Leading the choir |
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