Focus on Faith – Podcast Shares Voices of the Village

As we celebrate Older Americans Month in May at Brio Living Services, it is important that we honor the older adults we serve for their many contributions throughout their lives. Each has a unique and important story to share. This year, the theme for Older Americans Month is Flip the Script on Aging. As the older adult population continues to grow in the U.S., it is vital that we transform how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging, to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions.

What better way to do that than to give older adults the chance to tell their own stories! Thanks to the state-of-the-art recording studio at Porter Hills Village (PHV), part of Brio’s recent renovations to PHV’s common areas, and the expertise of Chaplain Carl Pace, technology is helping residents share their life stories through a monthly podcast, called Voices of the Village.

Carl has been the Senior Pastor at True Light Baptist Church in Grand Rapids for ten years and has recently joined the PHV Spiritual Life team as a chaplain as well. He has his own podcast, called Every Day Pastor, to “help people with their faith walk,” says Carl. “Maegan Garlock, Director of Lifestyle and Wellness at PHV, thought the residents might be interested in creating their own podcast. It provides an opportunity for residents to share their life experiences, reflect on their spiritual journey, and try out the recording studio.”

Resident Kay Fellinger, a retired teacher, shared her story of growing up in Iowa and her grandparents who started a Methodist Church. “I was kind of nervous at first, but it’s a fun thing to do,” says Kay. “People who listen to the podcast—even my kids—say, ‘I didn’t know that about you!’ Carl is very easy to talk to, and the equipment is top-notch.”

Carl adds, “All of us have a calling in our life. The podcast is a good way for residents to get to know each other and find commonality. It also gives residents the chance to learn about the technology, that it’s something they can all use and it’s not scary.”

Currently working on his doctorate, Carl offers Bible study for residents and rotates with the other chaplains to provide Sunday worship service. “I enjoy the sense of family among our team and the residents we serve,” says Carl.

To listen to Voices of the Village, visit: Voices of the Village | Carl Pace, or to read more of our residents’ and team members’ stories, check out our Blog at https://foundation.mybrio.org/blog/.