Yesterday, we celebrated Holy Communion at Bethany, the memory care facility. The mystery of the Sacrament is magnified when celebrated among people with dementia.
Two long-time, non-verbal residents who seldom respond when approached, eagerly received the elements for the first time during the three years I have served as chaplain. The look in their eyes communicated beyond words: “This is the bread of life!”
Being assisted by my neighbor and friend, Dale Sessions, is a special means of grace. Dale is an American Baptist clergy who is in mid-stage of his Alzheimer’s disease. He now lives totally in the present moment and his once extensive vocabulary has been reduced to very few words.
Dale’s very presence is a form of ministry; and the cup of salvation being held in his hands is a visible reminder that God’s salvation comes to and through the vulnerable and powerless among us.
Shifting Margins 
Thank you, thank You!
I pray for Dale and Norma, my sister.
God bless you. ..
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Thank you, Dean! Dale and Norma are special friends!
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Thank you for your prayers, Dean. We love you!
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A beautiful outpouring of the love of God. Dale and my husband, Ed, have been friends for 64 years and he and Norma are very special to us. Thank you for your love and compassion!
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Norma has spoken often of you and with great appreciation and affection.
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Thank You. Everyone is welcomed to Christ’s Table. We need to make this Holy Act more available . Ruth Moore
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I agree, Ruth, that we need to make the Sacrament more available, especially to those who are unable to attend the usual worship services.
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