Michaela Byrnes, Wartburg Theraputic Recreation Director with Rev. Robert Boehler, St. Mark’s
St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Yonkers demonstrated its commitment to community and intergenerational care through two heartfelt initiatives benefiting Wartburg residents: Arts in Mission and St. Mark’s Women on a Mission.
The Arts in Mission-NY (AIM) program, which brings families together to explore the creative arts in a nurturing, faith-based environment, recently hosted a piano recital for residents of Wartburg’s Berkemeier Living Center, the community’s new memory care facility. AIM has been fostering creativity, cooperation, and joy among young families since its founding in 2010 by Dr. Jean Boehler, who continues to lead the program.
“The piano students of Arts in Mission NY, an outreach of St Mark’s Lutheran Church in Yonkers, were delighted to share music with the residents at Berkemeier as they celebrated Valentinie’s Day with familiar tunes played by youngsters and sharing valentines and cookies. Beautiful connections were made as evidenced by the humming, foot tapping, and smiles. Arts in Mission NY is honored to share God’s gift of music at Wartburg, from one generation to another. “ said Dr. Jean Boehler
In addition to musical performances, AIM provides structured playtime that encourages imaginative, cooperative play in a safe, supportive setting. Through singing, dancing, and instrumental music, children not only develop creative skills but also experience the power of giving back to their community.
Complementing this musical outreach, St. Mark’s Women on a Mission recently assembled and delivered 200 welcome kits for seniors undergoing rehabilitation at Wartburg. The initiative was supported by a $3,000 grant from Lutheran Women in Mission – Atlantic Division, under the theme “From One Generation to Another”. Each kit included adult coloring books, sudoku puzzles, word searches, markers, and inspirational bookmarks, along with a pen featuring St. Mark’s contact information. Residents can use the pen to request prayers or become pen pals with the church’s third- and fourth-grade students.
Students from St. Mark’s (PreK through Grade 8) enthusiastically participated in assembling the kits, gaining a valuable lesson in empathy and service to others.
“The relationship we have with St. Mark’s is one of the many partnerships that make Wartburg special,” said Dr. David J. Gentner, President and CEO of Wartburg. “We are deeply grateful to Rev. Robert Boehler, Dr. Jean Boehler, and the entire St. Mark’s community for sharing their time and talents to enrich the lives of our residents.”
“We are so thankful to Arts in Mission for sharing their gifts with us this Valentine’s weekend,” added Rose Cappa-Rotunno, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Wartburg. “Music, creativity, and intergenerational connections have a profound impact on the well-being of our residents.”
These initiatives reflect St. Mark’s ongoing dedication to community service, bringing hope, joy, and spiritual support to seniors while fostering a sense of purpose and compassion in younger generations.
About St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Yonkers: St. Mark’s has been serving the Yonkers community for [number of years] with a mission to foster faith, learning, and service. Through programs like Arts in Mission and Women on a Mission, the church nurtures connections across generations and shares Christ’s message of love and hope.
Berkemeier Residents enjoy the piano performances
About Wartburg Nestled in Mount Vernon, NY, Wartburg is a distinguished leader in senior living and healthcare, offering a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional care. Unlike other adult communities, Wartburg’s vibrant 34-acre campus provides a full continuum of services, from independent and assisted living to rehabilitation, memory care, and adult day programs. Committed to supporting families at every stage of aging, Wartburg integrates medical excellence with compassionate caregiving. Recognized as one of the “Best Nursing Homes in New York State” by U.S. News & World Report for 12 consecutive years, Wartburg remains at the forefront of senior care, creating a community where well-being thrives.
Visit www.wartburg.org, for more information.
