The Next Step in a Retired Pastor's Life of Service


A Continuing MINISTRY


While Ron Denlinger was hired by Landis at Home as a driver, he


sees his work not only as moving clients from one place to another, but also as an extension of his life of ministry and serving others.


N


atives of Lancaster County, Ron Denlinger and his wife Joan, and their family, spent 25 years working outside of the area at various church planting efforts. Tey returned to Lancaster to help care for aging parents (including his parents who lived at Landis Homes) and find better opportunities for several of their children with disabilities.


In 2021, there were big changes. His mother-in-law, who lived with the family, passed away and both of the Denlinger’s children who live at home, received medical care that lessened their need for assistance.


“One day, I saw a note online saying they were looking for drivers for Landis at Home,” says Ron. Because of transporting his daughter and his mother-in-law over the years, he knew how to use wheelchair vans and thought his skills would carry over well.


Having been a pastor for 25 years, he understands people and comes alongside them as he gets to know them. Ron sees it as part of his pastoral ministry. His life experiences have given him a special ability to connect with those he transports. “I understand things that clients are going through.”


Ron’s love for those he serves is obvious, as is his desire to bring meaning to the relationships he is building. “I always try to remember: I am coming to their world at an important and sometimes vulnerable time and am glad to be part of their community. I can size up the situation in a pastoral way and ask myself, ‘What does the client need today?’ Sometimes we talk and joke. Sometimes I encourage them if they are nervous or overwhelmed. One of the most important things about Landis at Home is that we don’t just drop clients off at the front door and leave. We stay with them. It is more than transportation; it is walking alongside.”


Ron loves working for Landis at Home because he can help people thrive wherever home may be. He says, “Tat is what I am all about. Te vision and mission of the organization is great. It is more than a part-time job with flexible hours. It is about valuing and caring for people.”


14 • Landis.org | FLOURISH | Spring 2022


CULTIVATING MEANINGFUL LIVING


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