Plowing in Hope
Landis Homes president Larry Zook, center, is joined by current and former board members, team members, business partners and current and future residents for the plowing for the new expansion. September 22, 2009
"The Psalmists remind us that we are not the owners or operators of this good world rather 'The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, the world and they that dwell therein," said Dr. Richard Weaver in his reflections at a service of blessing for new growth at Landis Homes.
On September 22, just as the autumnal equinox was arriving, persons gathered at a tent on the east side of the Lititz retirement community campus looking south towards the acreage that will welcome new residents in 2010. The service, called Plowing in Hope, was held to mark the official beginning of this expansion and to acknowledge and seek God's blessing and guidance in this endeavor.
Dr. Richard Weaver led those gathered in a time of reflection titled "Spirituality and Creation Care." Using various passages of scripture and quotes from numerous writers he led the group in reflecting on how care of creation, including both people and the natural world, is following God's call to "be good stewards of the earth."
The retirement community expansion includes the creation of hybrid homes which RLPS architect Gregg Scott described this way in his remarks, "This new design brings together the best of both apartment and cottage living, while at the same time being environmentally responsible."
The new hybrid design has multiple exposures, indoor parking, outdoor living spaces, community areas, and will incorporate sustainable building products and methods. Landis Homes will be the first retirement community in the area to seek LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. This will include geo thermal heating and cooling, rain water harvesting and indoor air quality practices.
Following the service of blessing there was a time to actually turn over sod on some of the area that will soon be under construction. Board members, building and financial partners, residents and employees took turns holding the ropes that helped pull a potato plow. Participating business partners present included representatives of RLPS, RGS Associates & Benchmark Construction Company.
In his closing comments Landis Homes president Larry Zook said, "Our hope is that this vision both for being good stewards of God's creation and for strengthening community at Landis Homes will bring honor and glory to God."
Richard Weaver's Reflections
Ruth Weaver's Litany
To find out more about the event or hybrid homes contact Landis Homes at 717-581-3935 or email residencyplanning@landishomes.org
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