The magic of Generations Ashe is not in big flashy events and monumental milestones…it’s the compilation of small, precious and meaningful connections that happen under our roof every single day.  One of those moments happened on an ordinary Friday morning at our Assisted Living and Memory Care Facility, and I was there to catch it.

As I enter the Memory Care side of the building, I hear the hustle and bustle of residents getting settled in their seats, snacks being passed out and cozy blankets being offered.  As things quiet down, Pastor Dom opens with a prayer. 

He tells everyone that he is going to sing a few songs, and invites us to join in.  He sings familiar hymns like “Amazing Grace” and “Jesus Loves Me”, and in between songs he speaks of his love for Jesus, and Jesus’s love for all of us.  He tears up as he speaks about the impact that Jesus has in his life, and I couldn’t help but feel the sincerity in his spirit.  One of his last songs was “It is Well with My Soul”.  As he is singing the chorus, I hear the soft, but strong voice of a memory care resident singing right along.  He ends the service with another round of Amazing Grace, and then goes up to every resident to say, “bless you and have a wonderful day”. 

Pastor Dom has been an associate pastor at Appalachian Church since 2018 and serves as leader of senior adult ministry and pastoral care.  The first thing I noticed about him was his smile.  He exudes happiness and joy, and there is no denying his sweet and peaceful spirit.  When I asked him why he chose senior outreach as his ministry, he replied quickly with “senior citizens have always had my heart”.  Pastor Steve Ashley, lead pastor at Appalachian church, told me that Pastor Dom is the poster child of the church’s mission “Love God, Love People”, and I couldn’t agree more. 

I am so thankful for Pastor Dom’s commitment to his ministry at Generations Ashe Assisted Living and Memory Care, and the other facilities he visits in Ashe County every month.  He also leads a senior adults bible study at Appalachian Church on Mondays from 1-2pm.  He welcomes any senior citizen who is interested to attend!

“I go in hoping to be a blessing, but I always walk away blessed.” – Pastor Dom

Thank you, Pastor Dom! You are MAKING AN IMPACT!

-Jessica Mast
Executive Administrative Assistant