St. John’s Herr Estate, a Luthercare community in Columbia, is resuming an enriching and educational program for older adults that is open to the greater community.
This initiative, titled OWLs (Older Wiser Learners), features a unique opportunity for older adults to continue their intellectual growth with opportunities to hear from and engage with guest speakers and explore informative topics in a welcoming environment.
The program, which started this fall, features guest speakers from a range of fields, including history, nature, the environment, science, music, and the arts. The speakers lead interactive discussions and share insights on their area of expertise. Each session is open to the greater community, and all are free to attend.
“This program was developed by our residents, who really have a desire to connect over thought-provoking conversations,” says Heather Dennis, St. John’s Herr Estate Executive Director. “They have been suggesting presenters and topics, and we’re thrilled to bring these special guest speakers to our campus to offer educational opportunities each month. Our residents also wanted to share this program with our neighbors and friends, so we invite all older adults to join us for this journey of learning and connection.”
The following programs will be held at 2:00 p.m. on the third Monday of each month and will be held in the Chapel of the Good Shepherd at St. John’s Herr Estate, 200 Luther Lane, Columbia, Pa.
The schedule of upcoming guest speakers and topics are:
· January 20: An Hour with Ben Franklin, featuring historical reenactor Craig Hall.
· February 17: Earthquakes in the Mid-Atlantic Region, featuring Charles Scharnberger, retired Professor of Geology, Millersville University.
· March 17: Women in the Civil War, featuring Civil War historian Cindy Beaston.
· April 21: Severe Weather and Climate Change, featuring Greg Blumberg, Assistant Professor of Meteorology, Millersville University.
· May 19: Forensic Botany, featuring Chris Hardy, Assistant Professor of Biology, Millersville University.
Registration is not required for this program. If you have questions about the programs or would like more information, please call the Rev. Dione Klepetka at St. John’s Herr Estate at 717.684.0678, ext. 125.
About Luthercare
Celebrating 75 years of service, Luthercare, a social ministry organization affiliated with the Lower Susquehanna Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and a member of Lutheran Services in America, is a leading provider of independent, personal care and skilled nursing care residences in Lancaster and Lebanon counties. Luthercare operates Luther Acres, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Lititz, Pa.; Spang Crest, a rehabilitation center, skilled nursing care and personal care with memory support community in Lebanon, Pa.; and St. John’s Herr Estate, an independent living and personal care community in Columbia, Pa. Additionally, Luthercare operates PA Keystone Stars-accredited childcare and early learning centers in Annville and Reamstown. Luthercare, a pioneer in Childcare Programs, also offers a Mentoring Program that aids family childcare home providers in Lancaster and Lebanon counties.