Reasons I/We Are Grateful for ABCORI
A series of brief testimonies from individuals and churches
A series of brief testimonies from individuals and churches
March 7, 2025
One reason I am grateful for ABCORI’s ministries is the opportunities they provide for those in the later stages of life to experience fellowship and spiritual growth through unique programs. One such program is the Passport to the Psalms led by Rev. Kathryn Palen, associate executive minister for elder care ministries. In this program, grandparents bring their grandchildren to various locations to participate in activities together. These activities are designed to connect our daily experiences with the understanding of God’s plans for us and our world.
I participated in two events with my granddaughter. The first event was at Confreda Farms in October. Two other families attended, and we all navigated the pumpkin maze together. The children quickly formed a group and led the way, while the adults followed at a more leisurely pace. It was a delightful experience—the children ran ahead, and we adults enjoyed a relaxed walk. Afterward, the children picked pumpkins, and Rev. Kathryn engaged us with questions related to the harvest time mentioned in the scriptures. We sat on haystacks, enjoying the sunny and windy weather, and discussed how God cares for us. We were given passports containing questions and Bible verses related to our discussion to read at home.
This experience was beneficial for Ava, as it allowed her to grow spiritually in a way she could understand and relate to. She has a strong desire to belong and fit in, and she always wants to attend church with me, even though her parents are not churchgoers. Seeing Ava connect with her faith brings me immense joy. It was also a wonderful time for the other adults, thanks to Rev. Kathryn's meticulous planning and effort, which made it a memorable spiritual family experience.
Fran Pepin
Warwick Central Baptist Church
One reason I am grateful for ABCORI’s ministries is the opportunities they provide for those in the later stages of life to experience fellowship and spiritual growth through unique programs. One such program is the Passport to the Psalms led by Rev. Kathryn Palen, associate executive minister for elder care ministries. In this program, grandparents bring their grandchildren to various locations to participate in activities together. These activities are designed to connect our daily experiences with the understanding of God’s plans for us and our world.
I participated in two events with my granddaughter. The first event was at Confreda Farms in October. Two other families attended, and we all navigated the pumpkin maze together. The children quickly formed a group and led the way, while the adults followed at a more leisurely pace. It was a delightful experience—the children ran ahead, and we adults enjoyed a relaxed walk. Afterward, the children picked pumpkins, and Rev. Kathryn engaged us with questions related to the harvest time mentioned in the scriptures. We sat on haystacks, enjoying the sunny and windy weather, and discussed how God cares for us. We were given passports containing questions and Bible verses related to our discussion to read at home.
This experience was beneficial for Ava, as it allowed her to grow spiritually in a way she could understand and relate to. She has a strong desire to belong and fit in, and she always wants to attend church with me, even though her parents are not churchgoers. Seeing Ava connect with her faith brings me immense joy. It was also a wonderful time for the other adults, thanks to Rev. Kathryn's meticulous planning and effort, which made it a memorable spiritual family experience.
Fran Pepin
Warwick Central Baptist Church
March 7, 2025
There are three main reasons I’m grateful for ABCORI. First, I value the connectedness ABCORI brings to our American Baptist network of churches. The Connections newsletter allows us to keep up to date with coming events, resources, and inspiring messages. Coffee Chats bring people from across the state (and out of state) together virtually to discuss relevant topics, building an informal support system for participants. And ABCORI’s multi-church meetings and retreats give us spiritual growth and support in safe places where we can interact with Baptists from other churches.
Second, the staff of ABCORI provides a professional resource l have observed in action over the years. From assistance with pastoral transitions, guidance as churches find and assimilate new pastors, guidance with leadership crises, and personal and group professional development opportunities, I know I can always get help from an ABCORI staff person. On a personal level, after experiencing Coffee Chat Zoom meetings—and with coaching from Rev. Kathryn Palen—I now am able to lead a Bible discussion group on Zoom for my church.
I am also very honored and blessed to be a lay person on ABCORI’s pulpit supply list. ABCORI carefully manages this list so churches will be assured of quality substitute preachers in the absence of their settled pastors. With quarterly updates, ABCORI maintains this resource carefully.
I think ABCORI is a valuable resource for all of us.
Donna D. Sherman
Warwick Central Baptist Church
There are three main reasons I’m grateful for ABCORI. First, I value the connectedness ABCORI brings to our American Baptist network of churches. The Connections newsletter allows us to keep up to date with coming events, resources, and inspiring messages. Coffee Chats bring people from across the state (and out of state) together virtually to discuss relevant topics, building an informal support system for participants. And ABCORI’s multi-church meetings and retreats give us spiritual growth and support in safe places where we can interact with Baptists from other churches.
Second, the staff of ABCORI provides a professional resource l have observed in action over the years. From assistance with pastoral transitions, guidance as churches find and assimilate new pastors, guidance with leadership crises, and personal and group professional development opportunities, I know I can always get help from an ABCORI staff person. On a personal level, after experiencing Coffee Chat Zoom meetings—and with coaching from Rev. Kathryn Palen—I now am able to lead a Bible discussion group on Zoom for my church.
I am also very honored and blessed to be a lay person on ABCORI’s pulpit supply list. ABCORI carefully manages this list so churches will be assured of quality substitute preachers in the absence of their settled pastors. With quarterly updates, ABCORI maintains this resource carefully.
I think ABCORI is a valuable resource for all of us.
Donna D. Sherman
Warwick Central Baptist Church
February 21, 2025
One of the reasons I’m grateful for ABCORI relates to a new ministry we just started in January. Last October, Rev. Kathryn Palen did a presentation for us at a potluck supper. We had invited Kathryn to address how to better serve our older congregants. One of her suggestions struck a spark with our pastor: that is bringing seniors together regularly for a shared meal.
So S.A.L.T.—Senior Adults Living Triumphantly—was born. To start, we have recruited a team and have divided up all the tasks, i.e., setting up tables, cooking, serving, and cleaning up. The plan includes monthly speakers, and we have a great list of potential topics. In addition to luncheons, we are hoping in the future occasionally to do outings for our Honorable Elders who don’t get out much.
Our first luncheon brought forty people out. The enthusiasm was amazing, but why wouldn’t it be? What’s more fun at any age than sharing a meal with friends? We know that breaking bread together facilitates conversation and relationship building.
One bonus for us was that the luncheon appealed to new congregants, including some who have jumped right in, joining the S.A.L.T. team. As a result, I’ve had a chance to get to know them better and they have had a chance to connect with more members of our congregation. Clearly, it’s demonstrated the benefit of including new folks in different activities. Now they are truly becoming part of the family.
So, thank you, ABCORI, for providing this inspiration, and thank you, Kathryn, for your special leadership.
Meredith Eckel
Central Baptist Church, Westerly
One of the reasons I’m grateful for ABCORI relates to a new ministry we just started in January. Last October, Rev. Kathryn Palen did a presentation for us at a potluck supper. We had invited Kathryn to address how to better serve our older congregants. One of her suggestions struck a spark with our pastor: that is bringing seniors together regularly for a shared meal.
So S.A.L.T.—Senior Adults Living Triumphantly—was born. To start, we have recruited a team and have divided up all the tasks, i.e., setting up tables, cooking, serving, and cleaning up. The plan includes monthly speakers, and we have a great list of potential topics. In addition to luncheons, we are hoping in the future occasionally to do outings for our Honorable Elders who don’t get out much.
Our first luncheon brought forty people out. The enthusiasm was amazing, but why wouldn’t it be? What’s more fun at any age than sharing a meal with friends? We know that breaking bread together facilitates conversation and relationship building.
One bonus for us was that the luncheon appealed to new congregants, including some who have jumped right in, joining the S.A.L.T. team. As a result, I’ve had a chance to get to know them better and they have had a chance to connect with more members of our congregation. Clearly, it’s demonstrated the benefit of including new folks in different activities. Now they are truly becoming part of the family.
So, thank you, ABCORI, for providing this inspiration, and thank you, Kathryn, for your special leadership.
Meredith Eckel
Central Baptist Church, Westerly
February 7, 2025
One of the reasons we are grateful for ABCORI comes from the program sessions related to Dinner, Death, and Dialogue. Judy, myself, and our grandson James are grateful for the experience we each had with this program. We were particularly excited to have the opportunity to understand where the other participants would be in the various stages of thinking and discussing this topic with family and plans that have been made or “no plan."
Judy and I were able to share a unique perspective with the group in that Judy had been diagnosed with an incurable lung disease and how we realized that while we had gone through the mechanics of setting up living wills, etc., we now had to discuss reality with our family. For James, he came from the perspective of a 20-year-old experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest from which he would not have survived if not for the quick thinking of his mom and the rescue personnel. It brought to the discussion an awareness of the suddenness of these experiences at any age. The facilitation of this discussion with the attendees by Rev. Kathryn Palen we believe was a valuable takeaway for them.
Judy and I can’t say enough about how this program helped us and put things in real time to be discussed. The Five Wishes pamphlet is an invaluable resource, as is the ability to dialogue on this topic. Every church should have a session for their congregation!
Bob and Judy Butzier, James Marsocci
Oak Lawn Community Baptist Church
One of the reasons we are grateful for ABCORI comes from the program sessions related to Dinner, Death, and Dialogue. Judy, myself, and our grandson James are grateful for the experience we each had with this program. We were particularly excited to have the opportunity to understand where the other participants would be in the various stages of thinking and discussing this topic with family and plans that have been made or “no plan."
Judy and I were able to share a unique perspective with the group in that Judy had been diagnosed with an incurable lung disease and how we realized that while we had gone through the mechanics of setting up living wills, etc., we now had to discuss reality with our family. For James, he came from the perspective of a 20-year-old experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest from which he would not have survived if not for the quick thinking of his mom and the rescue personnel. It brought to the discussion an awareness of the suddenness of these experiences at any age. The facilitation of this discussion with the attendees by Rev. Kathryn Palen we believe was a valuable takeaway for them.
Judy and I can’t say enough about how this program helped us and put things in real time to be discussed. The Five Wishes pamphlet is an invaluable resource, as is the ability to dialogue on this topic. Every church should have a session for their congregation!
Bob and Judy Butzier, James Marsocci
Oak Lawn Community Baptist Church
January 17, 2025
I want to express my gratitude for the tremendous support ABCORI has given the First Baptist Church of Charlestown at Quonochontaug over the past several years.
Prior to the pandemic, our pastor retired. ABCORI assisted us in plans for the interim period. When the pandemic hit in the spring of 2020, their support and guidance helped us through several months of worship with various health concerns.
ABCORI was an incredible resource to our pastoral search committee. We made the decision to call Rev. Linda Moore as our pastor. She serves both Charlestown churches at Cross Mills and Quonochontaug.
Rev. Moore experienced significant medical issues from September 2023 to August 2024. During this year, there were months she was unable to preach or perform other duties.
ABCORI reached out to us. We never had to experience anxiety when meeting the needs of our congregation. ABCORI had our back every step along the way.
Their guidance and assistance over these past several years are greatly appreciated.
Dianne Storm
First Baptist Church of Charlestown at Quonochontaug
I want to express my gratitude for the tremendous support ABCORI has given the First Baptist Church of Charlestown at Quonochontaug over the past several years.
Prior to the pandemic, our pastor retired. ABCORI assisted us in plans for the interim period. When the pandemic hit in the spring of 2020, their support and guidance helped us through several months of worship with various health concerns.
ABCORI was an incredible resource to our pastoral search committee. We made the decision to call Rev. Linda Moore as our pastor. She serves both Charlestown churches at Cross Mills and Quonochontaug.
Rev. Moore experienced significant medical issues from September 2023 to August 2024. During this year, there were months she was unable to preach or perform other duties.
ABCORI reached out to us. We never had to experience anxiety when meeting the needs of our congregation. ABCORI had our back every step along the way.
Their guidance and assistance over these past several years are greatly appreciated.
Dianne Storm
First Baptist Church of Charlestown at Quonochontaug
January 2, 2025
There are many reasons (and perhaps more than I could have ever imagined) why I’m grateful for ABCORI. Chief among them is Elder Care Ministries. Over the past several years I have taken advantage of the opportunity to attend several workshops/retreats and have never been disappointed with the presenter (Rev. Kathryn Palen) and the topic being presented.
Finding a New Sense of Balance, a Third Third of Life retreat I attended in March 2023, is an event that stands out for me. This presentation helped me see new possibilities as to how I live my life and serve in my church, the community, and even at home. Having been blessed to live long enough to proudly claim I am in the third third of life, this workshop enabled me to more fully understand and appreciate the importance of not having to say “yes” each time I am asked to do something but rather ponder the request prayerfully before giving a response—especially when it turns out that my response is going to be “no”—without feeling guilty. This workshop further helped me understand the importance of finding JOY in whatever task I engage so I may bring JOY to others.
Yes, I am indeed grateful for ABCORI and its ministries that have afforded me opportunities to learn and grow as a part of God’s kingdom building and sharing.
Ann McGloshen
Olney Street Baptist Church
There are many reasons (and perhaps more than I could have ever imagined) why I’m grateful for ABCORI. Chief among them is Elder Care Ministries. Over the past several years I have taken advantage of the opportunity to attend several workshops/retreats and have never been disappointed with the presenter (Rev. Kathryn Palen) and the topic being presented.
Finding a New Sense of Balance, a Third Third of Life retreat I attended in March 2023, is an event that stands out for me. This presentation helped me see new possibilities as to how I live my life and serve in my church, the community, and even at home. Having been blessed to live long enough to proudly claim I am in the third third of life, this workshop enabled me to more fully understand and appreciate the importance of not having to say “yes” each time I am asked to do something but rather ponder the request prayerfully before giving a response—especially when it turns out that my response is going to be “no”—without feeling guilty. This workshop further helped me understand the importance of finding JOY in whatever task I engage so I may bring JOY to others.
Yes, I am indeed grateful for ABCORI and its ministries that have afforded me opportunities to learn and grow as a part of God’s kingdom building and sharing.
Ann McGloshen
Olney Street Baptist Church
December 20, 2024
One of the reasons we at the First Baptist Church in America are grateful for the American Baptist Churches of Rhode Island is for the facilitation of a congregational retreat by the Rev. Dr. Courtny Davis Olds at the Meeting House last year. During the session, she helped us to hold space to recall our best practices from the past while leaning into our common vision of how we intend to continue to live as church in this moment and going forward. This workshop enabled us to clarify our common call as a congregation consistent with the throughline of our church’s mission of religious liberty and hospitality over time. At the end of the day, participants left emboldened to lean more wholeheartedly into where we discerned the Spirit leading our congregation.
We recognized the value of inviting someone in to facilitate who was not a member of our congregation, yet found many consultants sought to engage in a process that was either too intensive or cost prohibitive. Church leadership was able to tailor a day long retreat with Courtny that best suited our needs and her particular skills. We are grateful for the support extended to our congregation in this capacity by our local denominational leadership.
Rev. Dr. Jamie P. Washam
Minister, First Baptist Church in America
One of the reasons we at the First Baptist Church in America are grateful for the American Baptist Churches of Rhode Island is for the facilitation of a congregational retreat by the Rev. Dr. Courtny Davis Olds at the Meeting House last year. During the session, she helped us to hold space to recall our best practices from the past while leaning into our common vision of how we intend to continue to live as church in this moment and going forward. This workshop enabled us to clarify our common call as a congregation consistent with the throughline of our church’s mission of religious liberty and hospitality over time. At the end of the day, participants left emboldened to lean more wholeheartedly into where we discerned the Spirit leading our congregation.
We recognized the value of inviting someone in to facilitate who was not a member of our congregation, yet found many consultants sought to engage in a process that was either too intensive or cost prohibitive. Church leadership was able to tailor a day long retreat with Courtny that best suited our needs and her particular skills. We are grateful for the support extended to our congregation in this capacity by our local denominational leadership.
Rev. Dr. Jamie P. Washam
Minister, First Baptist Church in America
November 15, 2024
I arrived in Rhode Island as a permanent resident in July 2022, having served for about 20 years as an ordained Baptist minister in Jamaica. I was unsure of how God would use me, but I made sure my steps were ordered by God.
My first exposure to the acronym ABCORI came via a visit and discussion with Rev. Dr. Jamie Washam, pastor of the First Baptist Church in America, for which I am thankful. Within days after contacting the ABCORI office, the executive minister, Rev. Dr. Courtny Davis Olds, sent me an email asking me to join her for a Zoom meeting. During the Zoom conference, Rev. Dr. Courtny gave me a warm welcome to Rhode Island, allowed me to share my call journey, and explained the steps I would need for recognition of standing of my ordination.
I am appreciative of the opportunity to participate in events organized by ABCORI, such as the Clergy Ethics and Healthy Boundaries workshop and the August 2023 weekend mission retreat, which gave me a greater understanding of my context. My inclusion on the ABCORI pulpit supply list and ultimately being invited to share before the Standing Committee on Ordained Ministry gave me so much confidence and reassurance that God’s call to ministry was still on my life, as I received recognition of my ordination.
ABCORI and its officers have been great facilitators in the process of my spiritual growth and renewed self-discovery; to which I am eternally grateful.
Rev. Michael A. Campbell
Pastor, Congdon Street Baptist Church, Providence
I arrived in Rhode Island as a permanent resident in July 2022, having served for about 20 years as an ordained Baptist minister in Jamaica. I was unsure of how God would use me, but I made sure my steps were ordered by God.
My first exposure to the acronym ABCORI came via a visit and discussion with Rev. Dr. Jamie Washam, pastor of the First Baptist Church in America, for which I am thankful. Within days after contacting the ABCORI office, the executive minister, Rev. Dr. Courtny Davis Olds, sent me an email asking me to join her for a Zoom meeting. During the Zoom conference, Rev. Dr. Courtny gave me a warm welcome to Rhode Island, allowed me to share my call journey, and explained the steps I would need for recognition of standing of my ordination.
I am appreciative of the opportunity to participate in events organized by ABCORI, such as the Clergy Ethics and Healthy Boundaries workshop and the August 2023 weekend mission retreat, which gave me a greater understanding of my context. My inclusion on the ABCORI pulpit supply list and ultimately being invited to share before the Standing Committee on Ordained Ministry gave me so much confidence and reassurance that God’s call to ministry was still on my life, as I received recognition of my ordination.
ABCORI and its officers have been great facilitators in the process of my spiritual growth and renewed self-discovery; to which I am eternally grateful.
Rev. Michael A. Campbell
Pastor, Congdon Street Baptist Church, Providence
November 1, 2024
One of the reasons we’re grateful for ABCORI is because of the wonderful support they gave us at Cross Mills Baptist Church during a very challenging year. Our pastor, Rev. Linda Moore, has had two serious back surgeries and a life-threatening infection during the past 12 months. This caused her much suffering, and she needed many weeks of recovery and healing time.
During those times of worry and prayer and planning for supply pastors, Rev. Kathryn Palen and Rev. Courtny Davis Olds were both very supportive and helpful to us. Both offered to find pulpit supply ministers for us if we needed help. Rev. Palen volunteered to preach for us several times, and we were grateful for her loving support, understanding, and messages. Thankfully, our dear minister is back with us and is healing well, but it is wonderful to know ABCORI is there to offer guidance and support whenever we need it.
Nora Safford
Moderator, Cross Mills Baptist Church, Charlestown
One of the reasons we’re grateful for ABCORI is because of the wonderful support they gave us at Cross Mills Baptist Church during a very challenging year. Our pastor, Rev. Linda Moore, has had two serious back surgeries and a life-threatening infection during the past 12 months. This caused her much suffering, and she needed many weeks of recovery and healing time.
During those times of worry and prayer and planning for supply pastors, Rev. Kathryn Palen and Rev. Courtny Davis Olds were both very supportive and helpful to us. Both offered to find pulpit supply ministers for us if we needed help. Rev. Palen volunteered to preach for us several times, and we were grateful for her loving support, understanding, and messages. Thankfully, our dear minister is back with us and is healing well, but it is wonderful to know ABCORI is there to offer guidance and support whenever we need it.
Nora Safford
Moderator, Cross Mills Baptist Church, Charlestown
October 18, 2024
One of the reasons I am grateful for ABCORI is that our leadership provides amazing resources and training opportunities to the Rhode Island church communities. In June, Greenville Baptist Church sent representatives from our Christian caregivers group to participate in the Called to Care workshop at Phillips Memorial Baptist Church.
We were greeted by the warmest of hosts at Phillips Memorial and met dozens of other excited participants from churches around the state. Under the expert guidance of Rev. Kathryn Palen, we learned the characteristics of caregivers; the basics of compassionate congregational care; and, in coming together, learned how we are not alone in our needs or in our caring. As we listened to one another, we knew that we were united and surrounded by Christ’s love.
We shared the many ways that we as individual Rhode Island churches are caring for our congregations and our communities. Since each church has their own unique ministries, we left with a huge collection of new ideas and renewed respect for one another. We shared resources, contact information, and gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow together.
I am grateful to our sister churches who participated; to Rev. Palen for her expertise and generosity; and to ABCORI for always looking for ways to bring us together and raise us up as we shine Christ’s light in the world.
Paula DiLuglio
Chair, Ministry of Christian Caregiving
Greenville Baptist Church
One of the reasons I am grateful for ABCORI is that our leadership provides amazing resources and training opportunities to the Rhode Island church communities. In June, Greenville Baptist Church sent representatives from our Christian caregivers group to participate in the Called to Care workshop at Phillips Memorial Baptist Church.
We were greeted by the warmest of hosts at Phillips Memorial and met dozens of other excited participants from churches around the state. Under the expert guidance of Rev. Kathryn Palen, we learned the characteristics of caregivers; the basics of compassionate congregational care; and, in coming together, learned how we are not alone in our needs or in our caring. As we listened to one another, we knew that we were united and surrounded by Christ’s love.
We shared the many ways that we as individual Rhode Island churches are caring for our congregations and our communities. Since each church has their own unique ministries, we left with a huge collection of new ideas and renewed respect for one another. We shared resources, contact information, and gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow together.
I am grateful to our sister churches who participated; to Rev. Palen for her expertise and generosity; and to ABCORI for always looking for ways to bring us together and raise us up as we shine Christ’s light in the world.
Paula DiLuglio
Chair, Ministry of Christian Caregiving
Greenville Baptist Church
October 4, 2024
Calvary Baptist Church in Providence has had some recent internal struggles, which led to engaging a consultant to help the church institute new practices and a behavioral covenant. Before establishing a pastoral search committee (PSC) to begin looking for a new pastor, we sought help from God and ABCORI. God is with Calvary, and through prayer, discernment, and faith to God, ABCORI played an important role in assisting the PSC in its process to find the pastor God wanted to lead our ministry.
We are grateful to ABCORI for their counsel, guidance, prayers, information, and materials that helped the PSC be successful in finding the pastor God wanted to lead the church. ABCORI’s guidance kept the committee focused on prayer while providing a step-by-step process to engage in this important work.
Throughout the process, questions and concerns were addressed in a spiritual way by ABCORI, which helped the church find a new pastor who we believe was sent by God. We are grateful to ABCORI for its leadership and counsel during a long process that is proving to be God-worthy. We continue to give thanks for this connection to ABCORI and pray that others will seek their guidance when needed.
Pastoral Search Committee
Calvary Baptist Church, Providence
Calvary Baptist Church in Providence has had some recent internal struggles, which led to engaging a consultant to help the church institute new practices and a behavioral covenant. Before establishing a pastoral search committee (PSC) to begin looking for a new pastor, we sought help from God and ABCORI. God is with Calvary, and through prayer, discernment, and faith to God, ABCORI played an important role in assisting the PSC in its process to find the pastor God wanted to lead our ministry.
We are grateful to ABCORI for their counsel, guidance, prayers, information, and materials that helped the PSC be successful in finding the pastor God wanted to lead the church. ABCORI’s guidance kept the committee focused on prayer while providing a step-by-step process to engage in this important work.
Throughout the process, questions and concerns were addressed in a spiritual way by ABCORI, which helped the church find a new pastor who we believe was sent by God. We are grateful to ABCORI for its leadership and counsel during a long process that is proving to be God-worthy. We continue to give thanks for this connection to ABCORI and pray that others will seek their guidance when needed.
Pastoral Search Committee
Calvary Baptist Church, Providence
