"Creating Caring Communities" is the mantra at the Bethany Care Society, the non-profit organization serving more than 3,400 Alberta seniors and people with disabilities. Using a holistic approach that emphasizes dignity and respect, Bethany has been providing care, housing and community services for such people and their families for 60 years. Founded by five men — two of them ministers — Bethany has grown to include 1,250 staff and 950 volunteers, with six care centres, three independent-living properties, a home-care program and a response service for medical or personal needs.
Faith has been an integral part of Bethany's operations since its inception, and in 1971, the pastoral care department was established. Today, the department is headed by Rev. Jean Morris, director of spirituality and pastoral care services, and currently Moderator of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. She chose seniors' issues as one of her moderatorial themes, advocating for attention to seniors' needs both inside and outside the church. During her congregational travels this past year, she said she has been encouraged by the positive response to these issues. Several presbyteries have invited her to conduct workshops on how congregations can offer practical help to people with dementia. "We want to be good at this," said Morris. "We want to provide care, but we're not always sure how. So it's good to learn of the struggles of congregations and brainstorm around it."
Morris is available for workshops on seniors' issues and their emotional, physical and spiritual needs, even after her year as moderator is over. Contact her at Bethany Calgary at (403) 210-4600 if your congregation is interested.
