Diversity & Inclusion | Community Experience
Although Presbyterian Senior Living's foundation is Presbyterian-based, we welcome people from many different walks of life and religions.
Interfaith dialogue is discussing, learning, exchanging perspectives and fostering respect for other religions. Creating and participating in interfaith dialogue can allow you to sharpen self-awareness, recognize biases, and create a peaceful coexistence with the community around you. Residents in our communities build bridges and make connections with each other through interfaith activities.
Meaningful Connections through Interfaith Initiatives
At our communities with a dedicated Chaplain, residents have the opportunity to be assisted with any religious and faith needs, no matter what the specific belief or religion. Having community-based Chaplains provides opportunities for learning and exploration along with providing a sense of belonging.
Community Chaplains offer different faith-based activities for residents to participate in. Some examples are non-denominational weekly services, yearly Blessings of the Pets and community or private memorial services for residents or loved ones who have passed. A community Butterfly Release is a unique example of a memorial service where a resident can purchase and release a butterfly in memory of a loved one.
Chaplains can also assist with education materials for individuals interested in exploring other religions. Chaplain John Cordes at Kirkland Village invited two representatives from Bethlehem’s local Muslim community to present information on the Islamic religion and culture. John felt participants of this informational session were engaged and able to ask open and honest questions about the Islamic religion.
Dietary Observances
Some communities may hold educational programs on religious holidays, opening the program up to individuals of all faiths to celebrate and learn about the root of the holiday and the customs/traditions. Jewish holidays such as Purim or Passover are great opportunities to learn more about Jewish food and dietary observances such as following a Kosher diet.
Following a Kosher diet means one is following the dietary guidelines set within the Torah, which is the Hebrew Bible. Not all who practice Judaism always follow a Kosher diet if ever. There are strict restrictions outlined in the Torah and through discussion you may find each Jewish household practices differently.
Resident-Led Initiatives
Outside of Chaplain led activities, some residents lead their own interfaith activities.
As a member of the Catholic Church, you can become a Eucharistic Minister through special training. Eucharistic Ministers can administer the Holy Communion which is a sacrament of the Catholic faith. Kirkland Village has a population of Eucharistic Ministers who administer the Holy Communion sacrament to members of the community weekly.
Resident led bible study and discussion groups, prayer groups of various religions, Sunday Mass Readings attended by various religions and non-religious residents are also common across our community.
PSL’s Mission
PSL has a commitment of promoting wholeness of body, mind and spirit for our residents and team members too.
At the Administrative Office, a team member led devotion group gathers virtually on Monday mornings. Jayson Luckenbaugh, Director of Budget and Financial Planning, started the weekly meetings in 2023 and refers to them as ‘First Things First’ to put God first on the first day of the week, the first thing in the morning. This prayer group provides the chance for co-workers to connect on a spiritual level, to share their joys and concerns, pray over the joys and concerns shared, and read from scripture. “It helps me to live out my own faith and to serve others by sharing the gospel, offering encouragement, and praying over whatever anyone shares. I view it as a form of servant leadership.”
Engaging in these interfaith activities and having interfaith dialogue with your neighbors, friends and loved ones can create safe spaces within your community. Connect with your Community Life Director or Community Chaplain to learn more about what is offered at your community.