Deede Bolger Commissioned as Housing Administrator of Wesley by the Bay

OCEAN CITY — A Service of Commissioning and Blessing for Deede Bolger, housing administrator of Wesley by the Bay, occurred Nov. 20 at 11:00 a.m. at the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Ocean City. Wesley by the Bay, a townhouse-style senior housing community of the United Methodist Homes of New Jersey (UMHNJ), is located at 2401 Bay Avenue in Ocean City.
In adherence to Wesleyan tradition, UMHNJ commissions its leaders and charges them with the authority serve in ways that move the organization’s mission forward and uphold its values of compassion, respect, stewardship and service. UMHNJ’s mission is compassionately serving in community so that all are free to choose abundant life.
Corporate Director of Mission and Pastoral Care, Rev. John Callanan, welcomed guests and Rev. Jinny Hubbard, director of mission and pastoral care of a sister UMHNJ community,delivered the invocation. Wesley by the Bay residents Barbara Ann DeBaufre and Susan Elgena presented Bible readings.
Rev. Beth Mallozzi and Rev. Salvatore Seirmarco, directors of mission and pastoral care of sister UMHNJ communities joined Rev. Callanan in the commissioning segment of the service. After signing a commissioning pledge, Ms. Bolger received several gifts symbolizing leadership. Cindy Jacques, vice president of housing and community initiatives, presented a token of appreciation to Ms. Bolger.
Rev. Seirmarco observed, “The service also symbolizes the support of every associate, manager, and corporate officer of the United Methodist Homes of New Jersey to uphold Deede, not merely for her work, but also for her personally. As we pledge our support of her ministry, we reaffirm that we too, are called by God and rededicate ourselves to finding joy in service.”
UMHNJ President and CEO, Larry Carlson, commended Ms. Bolger’s heart for leadership evident over 31 years and consistently positive resident feedback. Rev. Mallozzi reflected on UMHNJ’s value of the year, compassion. In light of current international events, she implored, “Compassion can’t wait. We need to see examples of compassion now. It compels us to alleviate suffering and honor the sanctity of every human being.” She compared that value to Ms. Bolger tireless efforts to assist and advocate for Wesley by the Bay residents.
Ms. Bolger acknowledged and thanked Wesley by the Bay residents, staff organization-wide, professional colleagues, friends, and her family for their presence, trust, mentorship, loyalty, and support.
A joyful theme song, arranged by St. Peter’s United Methodist Church Praise Band followed. Rev. Justin Falciani, rector of Christ Episcopal Church in nearby Sommers Point and Ms. Bolger’s pastor, gave the benediction. The group exited the sanctuary and continued the celebration with a luncheon in the church’s dining hall.
For additional information about Wesley by the Bay, call 609-399-6701 or visit www.umh-nj.org/wesley-by-the-bay.