This would have been the third Easter that residents at Extended Care Facility would not have Easter services. During bingo Thursday, one resident asked if we could gather on Easter Sunday and sing hymns. The lightbulb went off and I remembered we had a new resident who had taught Sunday school and participated in a weekly men’s prayer group. When asked, he said he would be glad to do a devotional on Easter Sunday.
Utilizing the karaoke machine, we were able to have the wonderful Easter hymns we all grew up with and then we were blessed with a message about God’s grace. When I was told that 12 or 13 residents had joined in, this verse came to mind: Jesus said, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20) It was evident to everyone who attended that this gathering was blessed by God.
Thursday brought a fun game of Easter picture bingo. We had lots of laughs looking for baby chicks, nests with eggs, brown and white hens, decorated cakes and Easter baskets. You had to stay with the description and do a lot of searching. Our tables were festive and featured candy-filled eggs. We always find a way to laugh and enjoy one another.
As spring has arrived and the weather has remained inclement, we have been unable to go outside. It is our hope that rain, storms and cool days will pass us by. The fresh air will do us all good. The sunshine will feel warm on our face as we gaze at the sky. Help us pray for this break in the weather pattern.
We celebrated two birthdays this past week where families gathered with their loved one, shared memories, good food and lots of hugs. Both residents have reached milestones that many never see. One visitor told me, “It was so good to be together.” I understood what he meant, as most of us have been unable to have family gatherings for several years. I am so proud that these birthday events allowed unforgettable memories to be captured for all the generations that were represented there.
