What happens when a church listens to the needs of the community and starts dreaming God sized dreams? We build spaces for connection and care.
A Little History…
Social isolation of senior citizens isn’t just a recent concern. It’s something Brecksville United Methodist Church was thinking about back in the 1970’s. Our then pastor, Reverend David Patton recognized that elderly residents living alone were missing opportunities for community and sought a solution. He collaborated with Bill Klein, a leading church member, to develop the idea of a congregate living facility on church-owned land. Brecksville United Methodist Church initiated the planning for a retirement home, Chippewa Place, in 1978. The goal was to create a facility that would allow residents to live independently in their own apartments while coming together for fellowship and evening meals.
After extensive planning, rezoning approvals, and fundraising efforts, the church realized it needed a developer to finance and build the structure. The Brecksville Senior Citizens Housing Foundation was formed to oversee the project. Groundbreaking took place on January 12, 1986, the building was completed and dedicated on September 13, 1987 and Chippewa Place opened its doors to residents in July of that year – a dream realized for the Brecksville community.
Historical information in this post from The Church by Chippewa Creek by William Long
The Chippewa Connection Today
A lot has changed since the 1980’s but one thing remains the same – we are still caring for and loving our neighbors!
Learn about Chippewa Place Here
While Chippewa Place is now fully independent of our church, we strive to find ways to reach out to, care for and include the residents who want to participate in the life of our church. Some ways we do this are through monthly weekday Communion Services and by hosting quarterly activities, including craft days and ice cream socials.
Here’s the latest:
March 21, 2025 – Chippewa Craft Day
The Joyful Gathering Team is taking the party to Chippewa Place in March! Would you like to help? We’ll be sharing a craft so each participant can take home a woven felt coaster. It’s going to be awesome. No special skills needed, except for patience and love. Come share a few hours of your Friday with some senior neighbors. This is a great opportunity for intergenerational service! Jenny Gee is leading the way.