By Alan Suderman
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE
At the entrance to Highland Springs, there’s a verse from Psalms over the door. It reads: “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.”
It serves as a reminder that although Highland Springs is not affiliated with any particular religion, the staff is committed to helping community members nourish their spiritual lives.
Studies show that having a healthy spiritual life can improve one’s physical and mental health, and can help older adults get through some of the more difficult adjustments in their lives.
Bountiful opportunities
At Highland Springs there are several opportunities for spiritual growth, ranging from weekly Bible study to carpooling with other residents to places of worship.
And twice a month on Tuesday night, about 70 residents and staff worship together in an ecumenical service.
It’s a chance for people of various faiths to come together and build a sense of spiritual community, says Bill Peirson, pastoral ministries manager at Highland Springs.
“We don’t look at religion; we look at spirituality—and everybody has spirituality,” Peirson says.
Some residents are retired ministers, like Pete Robertson, who has occasionally led the Tuesday service.
“I think the spirit of the place is very good. The people are very friendly,” he says.
Various clergy and religious leaders are periodically invited on campus to give talks, Peirson says, and word is getting out how open-minded and spiritually curious Highland Springs residents are.
“Our residents take the time to really explore their faiths and their spiritual sides,” Peirson says.
‘He’s a friend’
People who live at Highland Springs say they appreciate Peirson’s enthusiasm for the job.
“It’s obvious when we have our Bible study classes that he’s done some in-depth study,” says Marijo McFarland. “It’s really from the heart.”