This is a powerful and honest reflection. What stands out is not just the regret, but the clarity of what the church could be.
In many ways, this exposes a gap in how we think about ministry. We often focus on gatherings and programs, but neglect the places where people are most vulnerable. The elderly, especially those without advocates, are often unseen. And yet, this is exactly where the church’s presence could be most tangible.
I also appreciate how concrete this vision is. Not abstract compassion, but institutional care shaped by love, accountability, and community. That’s rare.
It makes me wonder how many other “missed opportunities” exist not because the church lacks resources, but because we haven’t expanded our imagination of what pastoral care can look like.
My takeaway is that leadership also includes when leaders slip. I applaud your transparency about what you wished you had built. I believe this poured out a powerful vision for a mission-driven care facility.
Our demographic must be the community of people the church is meant to serve, so this nursing facility cannot just be for registered church members. God’s roster includes all for God so loved the world (John 3:16).
Dr. Soaries, this is a great observation about what could have happened in a church owned nursing home.
As you recall, I was appointed by the Department of Military and Veteran Affairs as the staff chaplain at the NJ Veterans Memorial Home in Menlo Park. It was a gratifying experience and ministry.
The facility was for veterans and spouses of veterans and the average age was eighty. The care was good and because it was state owned the cost was moderate or free depending on the assets and income of the veteran.
Several FBC veterans lived there and it was an honor to serve them. Yes, there is still a need for quality and affordable healthcare for our aging population.
Since retiring opportunities in healthcare presented themselves to me and I was able to help my cousin open a in home hospice, Graceful Legacy Hospice in Fredericksburg, VA and I serve as her staff chaplain.
It’s never too late, if an opportunity presents itself, you’re more than capable of getting it done. And know that we are here for you to help with anything needed.
This is a powerful and honest reflection. What stands out is not just the regret, but the clarity of what the church could be.
In many ways, this exposes a gap in how we think about ministry. We often focus on gatherings and programs, but neglect the places where people are most vulnerable. The elderly, especially those without advocates, are often unseen. And yet, this is exactly where the church’s presence could be most tangible.
I also appreciate how concrete this vision is. Not abstract compassion, but institutional care shaped by love, accountability, and community. That’s rare.
It makes me wonder how many other “missed opportunities” exist not because the church lacks resources, but because we haven’t expanded our imagination of what pastoral care can look like.
As I read this I'm thinking about a real estate opportunity in Montclair just destined for your leadership.
Let’s discuss it.
Dr. Soaries,
My takeaway is that leadership also includes when leaders slip. I applaud your transparency about what you wished you had built. I believe this poured out a powerful vision for a mission-driven care facility.
Our demographic must be the community of people the church is meant to serve, so this nursing facility cannot just be for registered church members. God’s roster includes all for God so loved the world (John 3:16).
Dr. Soaries, this is a great observation about what could have happened in a church owned nursing home.
As you recall, I was appointed by the Department of Military and Veteran Affairs as the staff chaplain at the NJ Veterans Memorial Home in Menlo Park. It was a gratifying experience and ministry.
The facility was for veterans and spouses of veterans and the average age was eighty. The care was good and because it was state owned the cost was moderate or free depending on the assets and income of the veteran.
Several FBC veterans lived there and it was an honor to serve them. Yes, there is still a need for quality and affordable healthcare for our aging population.
Since retiring opportunities in healthcare presented themselves to me and I was able to help my cousin open a in home hospice, Graceful Legacy Hospice in Fredericksburg, VA and I serve as her staff chaplain.
It’s never too late, if an opportunity presents itself, you’re more than capable of getting it done. And know that we are here for you to help with anything needed.
Again, please accept our deepest condolences.
Dr. Lester Shelley
This kind of reflection certainly can represent inspiration for others.