Woven In Everything We Do

3 Pieces of Wisdom from Pastor Arlan Palmer

Pastor Arlan Palmer has been a part of the Wedgwood Christian Services team for over 35 years. As our Diversity Coordinator and one of our Chaplains, Pastor Arlan serves as a source of joy and encouragement to the kids receiving specialized treatment in our Residential Care, families connected to our Community Programs, and our team of professionals providing grace-filled care.

With his heart for others and wealth of experience at Wedgwood, we asked Pastor Arlan to share three pieces of wisdom about empowering and loving others well.

God’s Best Requires Your Best

We look to Christ as our example in how to live our lives. He gave his best for us, gave his life for us. We should do the same for others and dedicate our lives to serving and giving others our best. We love because he first loved us! Professional excellence and compassion for others has driven all we do at Wedgwood for over 60 years. Whether it’s in paperwork, making a meal, or being present and attentive in relationships – what better way to show someone that they are loved and valued than given them our best.

People Will Always Remember How You Made Them Feel

At Wedgwood we want to walk with others in a love that is accepting and not hung up on differences. The children, teens, families, and adults in our care don’t care so much about our varying theologies, they want to feel heard, understood, accepted, and loved.  What we do and how we act has an impact on those around us, and it is important to remember that! If we truly believe that each and every person is an image-bearer of God, and deeply loved and valued by our Creator, are we treating them as such?

Making people feel loved and valued, takes empathy and understanding that should lead to embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion. When we understand where others come from, how their experiences and background shape their perspective, we can better support and love them. When we know their needs, we can better advocate, communicate, and make sure their voice is heard.

Joy is Confidence

Many times, joy is equated with happiness. But happiness is a fleeting emotion. Joy is not dependent on our circumstances. It is dependent on Christ. Many of the children, teens, families, and adults in our care have dealt with some incredibly tough circumstances. We have the opportunity to share with them that joy can be found regardless of your situation. Joy isn’t a feeling, rather it is a hope and assurance that God makes all things work together for good. It is a confidence that even though things seem dark, morning – and brighter days – are coming.

We talked in-depth with Pastor Arlan Palmer about how he serves as a source of joy and encouragement at Wedgwood and how he sees God transforming lives. Listen to the full-length conversation on the Wedgwood podcast or watch the video of our Wedgwood Coffee Break Conversation on our YouTube page.