Eighteen Year Ministry
By S. Peggy Jackelen
Eighteen years ago I began my ministry at Bell Tower Residence. Never in my wildest imaginings would I have thought I would be the administrator of an assisted living community. I was educated for teaching, and then had been in community service for our sisters. Administration and working with seniors was a ministry for which I had no previous experience or preparation, but it was one for which I had a curious interest.
Early on I remember walking into Assisi Hall with my mother, having second thoughts, and wondering what I had gotten myself into. I was very nervous and afraid I was in way over my head. However, with my mom’s encouraging words, I took a deep breath and told myself to take it one day at a time. I have never regretted my decision.
When I began my present ministry, assisted living was a rather new alternative for seniors. State regulations were relatively simple. I realized my main responsibility was to assure that our residents received quality care and that they enjoyed life while maintaining their highest level of independence.
(L-r.) Pat Rajek and S. Peggy
We didn’t have an activity coordinator at the time, so Diane Witschaber, our marketing manager, and I provided activities. I fondly remember our first Christmas. I asked residents to share their favorite recipe for Christmas cookies and together we baked cookies. I had never made trilbies, but that Christmas I did! How silly of me to worry--this administrator role was great fun!
It wasn’t long, however, before things changed. We had a full occupancy within 3 ½ years. We were growing both in number of residents and employees. New regulations from the State were developed. Additional assisted living facilities were popping up all around. The assisted living environment was changing, and I soon discovered that my role was also changing. I treasured the times I spent with the residents, but such times were becoming less and less. I now needed to raise funds, provide for staff training, and complete multiple reports. I also realized that our ministry was not only to provide a pleasant home for our residents, but to reassure family members and provide them with much needed support as they struggled to determine what was best for their loved one.
In 2006 a Bell Tower Residence renovation and expansion project was completed. It was a dream come true. The residents now had more room. Our new apartment style units made the transition from home to Bell Tower less traumatic for residents and their family members.
Throughout my ministry I have been accustomed to growth and its demands—both personally and within the ministry itself. I suspect it is part of what attracts me to this ministry. I am truly grateful for all that I have learned along the way.
(L-r.) Eileen Wadzinski, Heather Norton, S. Peggy
When I reflect on our beginnings and where we are now I know that I didn’t walk this journey alone. Initially it took a leap of faith for me to say “yes,” but with that ‘”yes” came many blessings. Along the way I have met many wonderful people who appreciate Bell Tower and what it provides for those they care about. I have had the privilege of working with so many individuals who are dedicated to this ministry, just as I am. And certainly we wouldn’t have been able to accomplish all that we have without the generous support of many individuals who believe in our ministry.
The greatest blessing for me, however, is having been surrounded by wonderful people who are filled with wisdom and age, who love to share their life stories and appreciate a listening ear. For the past eighteen years I have had the privilege to be the Administrator of Bell Tower Residence. Our residents have taught me much about life, surrender, and dying, and what really is important as we journey together—to be loving and forgiving. I am very grateful for the opportunity to share life with them. How blest I am to enjoy my ministry as I do!
