adminArchbishop Desmond Tutu is credited with this admonition: “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” In this 120th year of ministry, we at Messiah Lifeways have been overwhelmed with kindnesses – gifts of time, talent, and treasure. From canned goods and homemade jellies to six-figure estate gifts, we have inherited a rich heritage of cheerful giving. Project Envision has marked another chapter in transformational gifts. To the donors and families mentioned here and to many others, we offer heartfelt thanks.
Hostetter Enrichment Center: The spacious new home for the Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning will be formally named the John N. Hostetter Enrichment Center in honor of the late Brethren in Christ bishop. This generous naming gift comes from the children of Dr. Robert and Mrs. Winifred Worman. Rev. Hostetter is considered our organization’s first fundraiser as he and his wife Nellie played a key role in raising funds in the late 1970’s.
Kibler Bridge: The connecting walkway between Village Center and the new Village Square will bear the name of Rev. George Kibler, past President and visionary leader. The Auxiliary’s significant campaign gift has resulted in this honor. Rev. Kibler quite literally bridged the gap between past and present, between Harrisburg and Mechanicsburg, between the old nursing home model and the new continuing care concept.
The Heisey Room: This intimate, reservable private dining area is just off Kathryn’s on the Square and will offer a lovely spot for small dinner parties and celebrations. It’s named in honor of current Messiah Lifeways board chair Glenn Heisey and his wife, Kelly.
The Wesley Courtyard: The beautiful outdoor patio area just off Café 100 is named in honor of former Messiah Lifeways board chair A. Wesley Carr and his wife, Jill. The courtyard features a fire pit, pergola, and ample seating for diners who want to enjoy their smoothies and coffee al fresco.
The Lesher Atrium: This light and airy gathering area is named to honor the many contributions of Drs. Emerson & Ruth Lesher and their ongoing commitment to Messiah Lifeways. Emerson is Messiah Lifeways’ immediate past CEO serving a term of nearly 20 years, and both have multiple family members who have lived or continue to live at Messiah Village and Mount Joy Country Homes.
The Asbury Room: The spacious communal dining room for the new Hopewell enhanced living neighborhood is named in recognition of a gift from Clarence and Susan Asbury. Clarence is a former Messiah Lifeways board chair, and Susan’s parents have been long-time Messiah Village residents.
The Rutherford: This cozy conference room on the main level of Village Square will be the perfect spot for committee meetings and other gatherings. It’s named in loving memory of Messiah Village resident Jere Rutherford, who passed away in 2014.
[article adapted from Messiah Lifeways Magazine, Fall 2016, Issue 10]
