Friendsview Retirement Community

“They’re fantastic,” exclaims Todd Engle, health services administrator, when asked about the ministry of Friendsview’s spiritual care teams, which began in 1999.

Rita Winegar remembers, “I knew residents who longed for someone to visit and pray with them.” With the aid of Frank Engle, director of marketing, the project later expanded into two teams composed of residents from many different denominations.

Dennis Russell, Friendsview’s executive director says, “When I came to Friendsview and learned about the spiritual care teams, I saw the value of this model immediately. Having many individuals with the collective experience and wisdom who could minister to the varied and often complex needs was a significant improvement over a single chaplain.”

Evelyn Piersall and Rita share responsibilities as leaders of the two teams. Evelyn acknowledges, “This ministry is very fulfilling for me. To sit with someone and pray for them brings joy.”

In addition to fall and spring training sessions and an annual retreat the teams meet monthly for fellowship, prayer, and to plan schedules for visits and sending greeting cards.

Todd Engle says, “It’s truly a blessing for residents, their families, and staff to know that nobody will ever have to be alone during hard times.” Families often express their appreciation. Team members take turns at the bedside of residents whose families cannot be with them or who need relief. Rita admits, “We share the load.”

Sherry Oakley, resident services coordinator, lends support along with Frank Engle, who leads training sessions and plans on-going education for the spiritual care teams.

“The prayers and willingness of residents called to this ministry is truly humbling and a real value to all who call Friendsview home,” adds Russell.