Clergy Corner – April 2025

As Pastoral Care Coordinator I am privileged to work with the Friendship Group, a group of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It has been delightful to get to know these folks and to experience their enthusiasm and dedication to each other. The group has been meeting for over 20 years, started by Judy Parsons and Margaret Reynolds.

We currently meet once a month on the third Sunday during worship. We usually start by checking in, and then do some sort of project: working on the Friendship Garden at the entrance to the courtyard, perhaps a craft project, cooking, practicing chimes to play in the service, or everyone’s favorite – Bingo. We close each meeting with a time of sharing, prayer and song. Once a year we do an outing – lunch or bowling.

The congregation has been very supportive, with a variety of folks helping out each time we meet. Of course, anyone else interested in helping is always welcome, whether by leading an activity or being a supportive presence.

We look forward to celebrating the 35th anniversary of the American Disabilities Act, which was passed July 26, 1990.

Rev. Ellen Ribe

Friendship Group with helpers Suzanne, Jill and Christie.

Comments(3)

  1. Suzanne Byrne says

    Oh Judy, I had no idea the group had been meeting for so long. I remember that day well and look forward to working with you and the group again. I won’t wait until July for the celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

  2. Lois McNamara says

    Back when they started the Friendship Garden, I helped Margaret for three years. Back then, they met twice a month. I just want to say that if you help with this group for a time, once they get t know you, they will be your friends for life. You will get a hug every time Ginny sees you. You will get a big hello from Marvin and he will talk Gators with you as long as you could possible want. The Friendship Group is so important for these members.

  3. Margaret Reynolds says

    The Friendship Group is a joy to work with. Ellen is the groups wonderful coordinator. My daughter, Shartel, looks forward to each class and enjoys and benefits from the companionship and support they give each other. A few years after Judy started the group, Denise Follenius served as its coordinator. Sara Kirk has also been a coordinator. Margaret

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