Annual Meeting

Attendance exceeded expectations September 13th at the 2008 Annual Meeting of High Ridge House celebrating a centennial of Christian Science nursing as provided in The Manual by Mary Baker Eddy. Kevin Massey, Executive Director, welcomed more than 150 gathered under a great tent on the lawn. He spoke of current progress and an opportunity to participate in planning a Christian Science residence.

Director of Christian Science Nursing, Theresa Austin, and Assistant Director, Pamela Galuskin, reported a variety of cases healed during the past year and witnessed by our nursing staff. Michael Pabst, CSB, of New York gave the keynote address on “Communicating the Message of the Comforter.” Music provided by two young musicians on saxophone and keyboard and a gala celebration cake honoring Christian Science nurses gave a festive air to the warm, almost-autumn afternoon.

Guests received a Gift Pack as a thank you for attending, which contained a 2009 planner, invitation to the December 18th Christmas party (open to all), and a certificate for a free Rest and Study stay.

• Our devoted young adult volunteers continue to give of themselves. Their selfless dedication contributed to the overall success of The Yankee ferry benefit, the Independence Day Picnic and our September Annual Meeting. They are indeed priceless treasures.

• Kudos to our loyal summer volunteers: Bobbie, who kept our gardens blooming and weed-free and Jim who brought his soft, downy Russian Wolfhounds many Tuesdays for a visit.

• Never-ending thanks to our Readers who week after week bring the services to us. Your devotion is awe inspiring. The patients send their love, too!

Improvements
 

• Early in 2008, the audio system upgrade was completed. Our burgeoning broadcasts include: The Bible Lesson eight times a day; Science and Health 24/7; Sentinel—Radio Edition three times daily; Christian Science Lectures; inspiring music; and live programs. Everyone is enjoying the spiritual uplift.

• Our weather-beaten HRH sign has been masterfully refurbished and may even look better than new in its bold blue and gold. Drop by and see for yourself.

Services and Training
 

• Inspiring and practical workshops are available to help awaken to the nurse in each of us and provide skillful examples to benefit ushers, care committees, or your whole membership. Contact Barbara Phillips, info@highridgehouse.org, 718-796-4200 x-202.

• Have you heard the call? Become a Christian Science nurse! High Ridge House has a full-time instructor and on-the-job mentor. Contact Sandy Block-Effron, SEffron@highridgehouse.org, 718-796-4200 x-269. The next class will begin on October 6 and conclude December 19. A secondary level course is scheduled for January 2009.

• High Ridge House will provide training for Christian Scientists seeking to become companions to assist other Christian Scientists in their homes. The next scheduled class is November 7-8. The course will also be given October 30-31, at The Open Gate, Bay Shore,Long Island. Please contact Loreen Hartman, our Home Nursing Coordinator for more information. LHartman@highridgehouse.org, 718-796-4200 x-285 

Upcoming Activities

• Fall Festival of Music by Classical Productions - October 11, 3:00 p.m.
• Christian Science Companion Training at The Open Gate - October 30-31
• Christian Science Companion Training - November 7-8
• Thanksgiving Dinner - November 27, mid-day, call to reserve, $15/person
• Christmas Party - December 18, 5:00 p.m.
• Christian Science Nurse Training - secondary course, January 2009