“It’s all about service…we come here to serve.” Pioneer Retirement Community Chaplain Harry Olson would tell you that just about sums up what he does at Pioneer.  It’s how that passion for “service” is carried out that so fully provides for the spiritual needs of the residents, their families and even the staff.

Building relationships with residents is a key element in what Chaplain Olson does each day.  “By the time a resident comes to us, they’ve already experienced a great deal of loss.  Loss of the family home, perhaps, loss of family members, loss of their home church as they’ve moved away.  I like to create some community for these people.  We look at photos together, have coffee and talk about those things that were part of their lives.  I really believe this feeling of belonging offers them a sense of hope, comfort and security.”

Chaplaincy services are available everyday, in a variety of ways at Pioneer. Just some of the choices include Bible studies, worship services and communion, to one on one spiritual visits and even music, provided room, to room, by Delores Pederson.

Our Chaplaincy services allow us to meet people where they are in their lives, and to minister to their families as well. We are sensitive to where they are in their spiritual life and offer ministry that best fits their needs.

Nurture and kindness, caring and compassion…that’s what Chaplaincy at Pioneer is all about.