Bringing Light & Song to Brookdale

Written by Grace Ueng

Every other month, our Community Group from Waypoint Church walks into the sunny common room of Brookdale Memory Care Center—and walks out with full hearts. What began as a simple act of service has become a most joyful and meaningful part of our rhythm as a group.

We gather to lead a short worship service: Pastor Danny shares a devotional, I play the piano, and we all sing hymns together. Afterward, we visit with the residents—listening to their stories, holding their hands, and sharing moments of connection. It’s a beautiful reminder that even a small act of presence can be a powerful expression of love.

Though some of the residents may no longer be able to express themselves as they once could, we see the spark in their eyes and feel the warmth in their smiles. There’s a woman who doesn’t speak much, but when we play “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” or “Jesus Paid It All,” she sings along—word for word. It’s humbling to witness how music and faith can reach places that memory cannot.

I started studying piano again after a four-decade hiatus to honor the memory of my mom, my first teacher. After this last week at Brookdale, I’ve decided to add hymns to my regular piano practice so the benefits of being ready to serve there transcend into my life at home. I also feel close to my mom and am reminded of how she also practiced hymns at home to be ready to play at the Chinese Missions church which she and Dad helped start. 

These visits also stir memories of the time I spent with my own parents in a senior community not far from here. Toward the end of her life, my mother also wasn’t able to communicate like she once was due to her dementia. That was heartbreaking for me and my son, Nick. But we kept visiting. We showed up. We held her hand. We made sure she knew she was loved.

In some small way, I hope we offer the same comfort to the residents of Brookdale, especially those whose loved ones may live far away. Our presence—our songs, our prayers, our listening ears—are reminders that they are not forgotten.

Serving in this way also brings our Community Group closer together. There’s something uniquely bonding about showing up together, lifting our voices in worship, and reaching out in compassion. We grow as friends, as neighbors, and as followers of Christ.

If you’ve ever wondered how you might serve, consider joining in as there are slots available for volunteers. You don’t need musical talent or special training. You just need a willing heart. Simply sitting beside someone, listening, or offering a smile can brighten their whole week—and yours too.

I’m so grateful to serve with Waypoint in this special way, and I hope more of our church family will experience the joy of it too. If you are interested, please reach out to Lawrence@waypointrdu.com