PHS stands out because of leaders who lead from the inside out. Driven by a deep desire to serve the Lord and serve others, you possess an extraordinary capacity to accomplish great things.
Introduction
In a previous post, CEO Dan Lindh emphasized the crucial role of strong leadership in achieving the mission of Presbyterian Homes & Services (PHS). Now, in this second installment of the ‘Making PHS Stronger’ series, Dan shares inspiring stories of employees and residents who are living out their purpose and making a difference. These stories demonstrate the power of purpose-driven leadership. May they inspire the next generation of leaders!
What makes PHS different: A place where faith and career align
By Dan Lindh, president and CEO
At PHS, we believe that leadership isn’t about position or status; it’s about purpose and service. Our faith-based culture fosters an environment where you can live out your faith and make a lasting impact.
Jesus said, “The last will be first, and the first last.” This reminds us that everyone is called to serve, regardless of their circumstances. At PHS, we’re committed to empowering all of us on our faith journeys.
Four core leadership principles for living out your purpose
Let’s explore the power of four core leadership principles through stories of PHS employees and residents. These principles guide our actions and lead us to mission fulfillment based on faith and exceptional care.
#1 Grounded in purpose
#1 Grounded in purpose- Leaders who understand God’s call on their lives and reflect the love of God
Consider Bitrus Bamai, who left a life of persecution in northern Nigeria to serve the Maranatha community. His Christian heart shines through in his interactions with residents and employees.
Bitrus grew up in a Christian home and began his faith journey as a young boy. Influenced by his parents, he was given the name Bitrus, the Hausa version of the name Peter, after Jesus’ disciple and one of the first leaders of the early Christian church.
When Bitrus felt called by God to a lifetime of service as a pastor, he knew it could mean a life of poverty and persecution. Yet, through trials and tribulations, his faith grew stronger, reinforcing his conviction.
More recently, Bitrus’ wife Ruth was able to join him in the United States. Today Ruth is serving at our EagleCrest community as a certified nursing assistant. Beyond their service here, Bitrus and Ruth have established a foundation and safe house to aid victims of violence in Nigeria. Their strong faith and compassion are making a profound impact both here and across the world.
#2 Motivated to serve and make a difference
- Leaders who are driven by a desire to serve others, no matter what
Consider Hugh McElroy, a Marvella resident. After working at 3M for 34 years – and traveling the globe for the last 12 – Hugh experienced many different cultures. But, in 2000, a different kind of trip changed his life. A friend invited him on a 10-day mission trip to build homes in Guatemala, changing the lives of impoverished families.
The experience impacted him so profoundly that, in 2013, he co-founded a faith-based organization to transform the lives of vulnerable girls in dire poverty.
When several of these girls graduated from high school and began college in 2023, it was a proud moment for Hugh and the ministry Luminarias, as few girls in Guatemala attend school beyond sixth grade.
2023 brought many changes for Hugh, too. After experiencing heart failure, and at the prompting of concerned family members, he moved from his house to an independent living apartment at Marvella, then to assisted living a few months later. But his passion for helping others remains strong.
#3 Growing in competency and collaboration
- Leaders who are committed to lifelong learning and building strong relationships with their team, residents and families
Israel Omariba’s faith and respect for older adults guided him to our mission soon after he arrived in the United States.
Over the past 25 years, Israel has grown professionally within PHS, from a nursing assistant to an RN and now a clinical administrator. Yet, he stills sees himself as a caregiver, inspired by memories of caring for his grandfather in Kenya.
As a key leader at Waverly Gardens, Israel plays a crucial role in developing the care center team — which includes about 60 nurses and nursing assistants. His influence extends from his core faith and purpose.
Israel leads by example, working alongside his teammates to serve residents. His commitment to lifelong learning and building strong relationships has made him a key contributor, serving with excellence while living out his faith.
#4 Making a lasting impact on people’s lives
- Leaders who go above and beyond, providing exceptional care and sharing their faith in a way that touches hearts for eternity
Another inspiring story is about a 98-year-old man who found faith at EagleCrest. Despite years of resistance to spiritual conversations, this gentleman was eventually led to the Lord by Campus Pastor Jane Morgan.
Imagine the surprise and joy of a family who had spent years trying to spark a spiritual conversation with their father. Jane’s effective ministry broke through those barriers, leading to a profound transformation in his life.
At 98 years old, this man is now a Christian, who is sharing his faith with others. He has even requested that Pastor Jane lead his funeral service and that his caregivers, who embody our Christian culture, participate in that ceremony.
This is just one example of the transformative power of our faith-based approach at PHS. We’re a church without walls, always seeking opportunities to share the gospel with those we serve. Many older adults come to us seeking care, only to discover a deeper purpose and a renewed sense of faith.
As people face the reality of their mortality, they often become more interested in spiritual conversations. Our goal is to be there for them, offering support, guidance and the opportunity to explore their spiritual journey.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. —Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
Embracing your faith-filled leadership journey
When I reflect on the stories of Bitrus and Ruth, Hugh, Israel, Jane and others, I recognize powerful faith journeys being lived out here at PHS and beyond. These individuals show the power of purpose-driven leadership and the transformative impact it can have on our communities.
PHS stands out because of leaders who lead from the inside out. Driven by a deep desire to serve the Lord and serve others, you possess an extraordinary capacity to accomplish great things.
We’re committed to creating a culture where leadership can grow in all four core dimensions. By developing your skills, collaborating with others and fulfilling our mission, you can become a leader and make a lasting impact on the lives of those around you.
As we continue to invest in leadership development, perhaps your story will be next? Join us on this journey of faith, service and leadership.
Key takeaways
- Join PHS and make a lasting impact. As a faith-based organization, we offer a unique opportunity to serve while living out your faith.
- Lead from the inside out by integrating your faith and purpose and serving with excellence.
Discover strategies for developing and nurturing exceptional leadership within PHS in our next installment of ‘Making PHS Stronger.’
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Further reading:
Why leadership matters more than ever: CEO Dan Lindh’s vision
Bitrus Bamai’s story: Maranatha! A community of faith, hope and belonging
Hugh McElroy’s story: ‘Enriching Lives’ 2024 fall edition
Israel Omariba’s story: African grandfather’s blessing inspires a career in caregiving
