Parsons Presbyterian Manor
February – Love
FEBRUARY 2023
For 17 years Betty Hanson has brought joy through song to Presbyterian What began as a means of cheering up an old friend turned into a ministry for Betty Hanson. Now, Parsons Presbyterian Manor is wishing a fond, if bittersweet, farewell to their favorite ‘singalong’ gal. “It doesn’t seem like 17 years, but I guess that’s how long it’s been,” said Hanson, 94, who has volunteered her time at Parsons Presbyterian Manor through a unique music ministry that started with an act of friendship. “A friend moved to an assisted living community and was having Betty Hanson lead sing-alongs at the a hard time adjusting,” Hanson Parsons Manor for 17 years. recalled. “She missed her piano, which she couldn’t bring with her when she moved, so I suggested we play the community’s grand piano and sing some songs. It cheered her up and I thought, this could be a great opportunity.” Born from there was a beautiful ministry that’s brought smiles to the faces of countless Presbyterian Manor residents. The second Thursday of every month has been sing-along time with Betty, and residents and staff members alike have loved every minute. Now, she’s moving to Girard, Kansas to be closer to family, bringing an end to a very special tenure. “Once I get settled, I may try to pick up the ministry at a community in Girard,” Hanson said. “We’ll see what happens.”
Farewell – continued on page 3
Editor’s Note: In a nod to our Presbyterian heritage, we regularly feature a column from a PMMA® chaplain in our newsletter. This month’s column comes from Rev. Bob Webb, chaplain at Farmington Presbyterian Manor®.
How quickly time goes and now we are into the New Year. The stores have put away Christmas and New Year’s gifts Bob Webb and we’re already in February, the month of love. The problem with holidays is if we aren’t careful we become “holiday people” and miss the reason for the celebration and its personal meaning to us. When I think of February, it’s the month of valentines, candy, flowers and all the reminders of those who are special in our lives. As the activities department is busy helping our residents to remind them of how special you are to all of us who work and love you, my thought of love is not one we have one time a year but something we all need to learn to cultivate each day of our life. When I think of love I am reminded who it is that loves each of us so very much and shows us that love, not just once a year but day in and day out. That one is God who loves each one of us, no matter what goes on. Even when I forget Him He remembers me and loves me. God's Word tells us in First Corinthians Chapter 13 what true love is all about. For time wise I will not share it all, but I am instructed that love suffereth long,
Chaplain–continued on page 2
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