Questions for Chris and Adam
What has mentorship looked like in a practical, day-to-day sense?
Chris:
In the beginning, Adam mostly tagged along and observed my daily routine. As time went on, he began taking more initiative. He started joining in on spiritual care moments and gradually stepped into leadership. It was encouraging to see him grow into that role, and residents responded very positively to him.
Adam:
My role started with shadowing, watching how Pastor Chris engaged with residents and learning from those interactions. Over time, I began to apply what I was seeing and added my own approach and personality to it.
Why is it important to invest in training and raising up future leaders in ministry?
Chris:
If we don’t pass on what we’ve learned, both our successes and our mistakes, then the work of ministry, especially with seniors, cannot continue to grow. We have a responsibility to care for people well, offering hope and meaning. It’s truly a joy and an honor to share that knowledge with the next generation.
Adam:
As an intern, I feel like I’m helping break the stigma that young people aren’t interested in caring for older adults. The work we do is deeply meaningful, and it’s something you really can’t put a price on.
Can you share a moment where you saw meaningful growth or development?
Chris:
With Adam, he already had many of the foundational tools. It became about building confidence and learning how to engage more deeply with residents. I remember a moment where he offered thoughtful, biblically grounded encouragement that truly spoke to a resident’s heart and it showed real growth.
Adam:
One area of growth for me was learning to sit with residents who have cognitive or physical disabilities. There’s a unique sensitivity required in sharing Christ’s love with individuals who may not always be able to respond verbally. That experience stretched me and helped me grow.
Questions for Adam
What drew you to Tabor, and why did you choose to serve here?
Ministry with the elderly is something I’ve been considering as a future career. I volunteered here for two years, so I was already familiar with the community. Everything aligned, and I felt a strong passion to serve here.
What have been some highlights from your time with us?
One of the biggest highlights has been building relationships and hearing residents’ stories, especially how God has been faithful in their lives. While I’ve been able to offer support, I’ve received so much from them in return through their wisdom and experiences. Leading them in Christ’s way and hearing their feedback has been an incredible blessing to share the Lord’s truth
In what ways did you create meaningful experiences for residents?
The most impactful thing I did was simply being present. I learned from Pastor Chris the importance of small gestures, like greeting residents and learning their names. Those simple acts of attentiveness created meaningful connections. It showed me that little things really matter.
How has this experience shaped your perspective on ministry or care?
This experience has shown me how needed ministry with the elderly truly is. Seniors are often overlooked in both society and the church. Bridging the generational gap helps reduce loneliness and isolation. Even something as simple as visiting your grandparents or reading the Bible with them can mean the world.