Thursday, December 01, 2022

A GIFT OF COMPASSION

Following the news of the sale of the Pinecrest Community, a member of the Mount Morris Church of the Brethren—which is located just down the street from Pinecrest—decided they wanted to do something to support the retirement community’s staff.

The member, who wished to remain anonymous, decided to send a $20 gift card for a local supermarket to every staff member. They asked that the congregation send the cards with a letter of support to the employees, about 150 in all.

And so on Nov. 28, a letter signed by pastor Rodney Caldwell, moderator Brenda Nevenhoven, and leadership team chair Dianne Swingel accompanied the gift, beginning: “Thank you for your compassionate service to the residents of Pinecrest Community.” Noting the history between the denomination and Pinecrest, it continued, “Pinecrest Community has been dear to the heart of our church community for over a century. Although the sale of Pinecrest Community brings a conclusion to our formal relationship, please be assured of our continuing support, concern, and prayers. May God continue to bless the vision that led to the founding of the “Brethren Home” in Mt. Morris in 1893.”