BHHM Articles

Employee Spotlight: Alex Edris

A Heart for Service, A Gift to Our Team

This month, we are proud to shine the spotlight on Alex Edris, the dedicated administrator at Baptist Homes of Shelbina. Since joining our team in May 2024, Alex has quickly become a cornerstone of the community, building meaningful relationships with both residents and staff.

Whether she’s in her office or walking through the halls, Alex is known for her warm smile and willingness to lend a hand. Her servant heart, steady leadership, and daily encouragement make her the backbone of our building. She goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and cared for.

Alex brings with her over seven years of experience as a licensed administrator. Her journey into senior care began in a deeply personal way, when she helped place her grandmother into an assisted living community. That moment sparked a calling in her heart: to advocate for the elderly, lead with compassion, and provide care that upholds the dignity of every resident.

Alex completed her internship at Salt River Community Care from 2012–2014 and has been faithfully serving seniors ever since. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, accountability, and a deep love for those she serves.

Alex lives in Monroe City with her husband of 12 years, Brock Edris, and their three children: Rylan, Cruz, and Aubrie. Outside of work, she enjoys soaking up the sunshine, swimming in the family pool, and making memories with her loved ones.

We’re grateful for Alex and her commitment to the mission of Baptist Homes. She truly embodies what it means to lead with heart.

Most Importantly, Pray.

By Dr. Ron Mackey, Vice President, Community Engagement

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:6

In over 10 years’ experience in writing articles for our communications with you, our supporters, I have referenced/written about prayer over 30 times (thanks, Microsoft Co-Pilot!). While that may seem redundant, let us remember that Jesus instructed us to pray for our daily bread. There are needs that our ministry faces on an ongoing basis that will likely never change or not need prayer. I would like to bring those before you again this month.

Long-term care has become the most highly regulated industry in America, recently surpassing the nuclear power industry. Every day, moment by moment, we encounter a vast array of regulations that oversee the physical safety of our buildings, the dietary needs of our residents, the health and social vitality of our residents, as well as the needs of our employees. Each day we make decisions that have a significant impact on the wellbeing of those for whom we are called to care. Pray for us that at every level we will follow this array of regulations, not just because we are required to, but as a means of bringing glory to our God!

Providing care for the elderly requires a person-centered approach.  We are not making widgets here at The Baptist Homes. We are caring for your loved ones. Our task— our calling— is to do so in a Christ-honoring way. In order to do this, we must recruit, employ, develop and retain Christ-called staff. Finding that ‘calling’ requires more than deciphering words in a job application— it requires a heart that seeks to hear the direction of the Holy Spirit as we hire. This insight is necessary in the hiring process for all positions as we need Christ-called staff in laundry services, dietary, housekeeping, maintenance, administration and nursing. Pray for us that we will do that hard thing and seek out those staff whose hearts already beat for the aging or whose hearts can be molded towards that purpose.

Pray for us as we seek to communicate in a new world and a new context. Having received certification as a Medicare and Medicaid provider, we are learning how to communicate in a new world. We are now geographically and financially available to more aging seniors than we’ve ever been before. We need the right mechanisms and plan to communicate this availability in bold and new ways. We covet your prayers in this area.

You will read in this newsletter about our 21-day prayer initiative. This would be a great time to commit to praying for Baptist Homes. This prayer guide will inform your prayer throughout this season. Thank you for your continued support! Remember, the most important thing you can do for us is pray!

Neighbor Spotlight: Larry Hendrickson

Larry Hendrickson

A Life of Faith, Family, and the Outdoors

Born on August 25, 1947, in Owensville, Missouri, Larry Hendrickson has spent his life rooted in faith, service, and love for the great outdoors. His journey of faith began early—he recalls being taken to church as a child and hearing the gospel from his Sunday school teacher. At just 12 years old, he accepted Christ into his heart, a decision that would shape the rest of his life.
While attending Southwest Baptist College, Larry met Joyce, a student at Southwest Missouri State in Springfield. The two were married on June 6, 1970, in Gray Summit, Missouri, and began a shared life marked by ministry and love.
After graduating in 1970 and later earning a degree from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1979, Larry faithfully pastored six churches across Missouri during his 47-year ministry. His passion for serving others is matched only by his love for the outdoors. An avid hunter and fisherman, he also discovered a love for wood carving in 1988, a hobby he still enjoys today.
Larry and Joyce are the proud parents of two children, Scott, who lives in Jefferson City, and Jennifer, who lives in Columbia. Between them, they have six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. With most of the family nearby, monthly family gatherings are a cherished tradition.
In December 2020, the couple moved to Baptist Homes of Ashland following health concerns and the need for more accessible living. Even so, the joys of the outdoors remain part of his life. Larry continues to enjoy fishing and black powder deer hunting, embracing the beauty of creation and the blessings of family.

A Gift That Gives Back

While many taxpayers are just getting finished with tax preparations for 2024, now is a strategic time to prepare for 2025! How about a gift that gives back?

Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries is partnering with the Missouri Department of Economic Development (MODED) to issue $350,000 in Neighborhood Assistance Program Tax Credits. NAP tax credits are issued at a 70% rate of qualified donations. These gifts will assist with renovations to create efficiency suites in the historic Riggs Scott Building.

The Missouri Neighborhood Assistance Act makes this credit available to any person, firm, or corporation with business income in Missouri. Qualified individuals operating a sole proprietorship, a farm, rental property, or earning royalty income are eligible, as well as shareholders in an S-corporation, partners in a Partnership, or members of a Limited Liability Corporation.

How does this work?

Step 1: Baptist Homes receives a donation of $1,000 or more.

Step 2: Baptist Homes sends the donor Missouri tax paperwork to complete.

Step 3: The paperwork is returned to Baptist Homes, and then we send the completed paperwork to MODED.

Step 4: MODED will notify potential donors of approval or denial within 45-90 days.

This is a unique opportunity for Baptist Homes to partner with our supporters and to bless our ministry. Tax credits are limited, so contact us today!

For more information about Missouri state tax credits, contact Ron Mackey (rdmackey@bhhm.org) or Nick Davis (ndavis@bhhm.org) at 573-546-2709.

Overcoming Misconceptions

The parents of a close friend and colleague were cremated following their earthly passing into their heavenly home. A memorial service was held, and stone monuments were placed near the location where they had spent their final years. Family and friends gathered to remember them and honor their lives and legacy.

Years later, when a change in property ownership occurred at the site of the monuments, concerns arose. Some friends who had attended the original service voiced their belief that the property was a burial site. A few even claimed, “I saw them buried here,” and went so far as to submit letters stating they had personally witnessed the burial of the bodies—or at least the ashes.

My friend can only chuckle. He knows the truth: his parents are with the Lord, and their ashes reside in an urn at his home. This story is a powerful reminder of how deeply people can hold onto long-standing assumptions—even when those assumptions are inaccurate.

For nearly 70 years, Baptist Homes operated under one such assumption: that residents must sign over all assets in exchange for care. Under that model, Baptist Homes accepted homes, farms, and other properties, using the proceeds to fund resident care and to build an endowment for future needs.

That practice changed four decades ago. Baptist Homes shifted to a private pay model, welcoming residents who could cover their care for at least five years. The promise we made was simple but profound: when those resources were exhausted—including real estate and other assets—Baptist Homes would continue to provide nursing care, funded by our endowment.

Today, those original endowed funds are gone. Also gone is the stigma associated with being a “benevolent case.” At Baptist Homes, quality of care does not depend on how a resident pays. Whether someone is on private pay, Medicaid, or another insurance source, they receive the same compassionate, Christlike care, whether at our five-star Arcadia Valley campus or any other location.

By God’s goodness and grace, Baptist Homes is now able to serve almost any senior in need of care. Whether it’s independent living, short-term rehabilitation, assisted living, or long-term care, we are here to help.

Still, misconceptions linger. I continue to hear outdated or unfounded statements like, “Baptist Homes has a five-year waiting list,” or “They only accept private pay,” or even, “You have to sign over all your property to get in.”

Let me be clear: none of those statements are true. While we may be full from time to time in one level of care at a particular campus, our waiting lists are generally short, and our admissions policies are in alignment with the best practices in senior care.

Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries today serves more seniors in more locations and with more payor sources than ever before. While care is never inexpensive, we strive to keep our rates among the most affordable in the nation. Our accepted payor sources include Private Pay, Medicaid for long-term care, Medicare, and an expanding number of Medicare Advantage plans for short-term rehab.

Yes, Baptist Homes has changed with the times—offering larger living spaces, advanced technology, and modern amenities—but what has not changed is our unwavering commitment to providing Christlike care to every person we serve.

Thank you for supporting the mission and ministry of Baptist Homes.

Together in His service,
Rodney Harrison

What’s So Golden About the Golden Years?

Many readers may remember the late Billy Graham’s long-running question-and-answer column in Decision magazine, where he addressed deep questions of faith in a fallen world. One such question stood out: “What’s so golden about the golden years? I don’t see anything ‘golden’ about walkers, wheelchairs, and nursing homes.”

Dr. Graham responded with his characteristic wisdom and grace. He explained that the term “golden years” was actually coined in 1959 as part of an advertising campaign for one of America’s first retirement communities. The idea quickly caught on, promoting retirement as a time of leisure, pleasure, and ease.

But the Bible never glosses over the challenges of aging—nor did Billy Graham. He often reminded readers that while aging brings undeniable hardships, it does not mean our lives are without purpose. In fact, he believed the opposite.

At the time of his passing in 2018, Dr. Graham had spent nearly five years using a walker and wheelchair and receiving regular nursing care. In a moment of touching irony, it was a nursing student who discovered that he had gone home to be with the Lord.

When asked about his declining health, Graham simply reiterated his own words:

“The Bible doesn’t hide the negative side of getting older—nor should we.”

He faced the trials of aging with honesty and hope. Despite physical decline, he expressed gratitude for each day, knowing that God had a purpose for every moment. He believed that some of his most spiritually fruitful years came after his last public crusade—years filled with deeper prayer, meditation on Scripture, and encouraging others in their walk with Christ.

Scripture offers numerous examples of faithful men and women who refused to view old age as a time of passivity or indulgence. One such example is Barzillai, a lesser-known yet vital figure in the life of King David. In his old age, Barzillai provided crucial support and hospitality to the king during a time of crisis (2 Samuel 19:32–37). His generosity and courage played a part in preserving the Davidic line, through which the eternal reign of Jesus Christ was fulfilled.

The Holy Spirit, in divine wisdom, included the biblical narratives of Barzillai—and Psalm 71—to speak directly to aging faithfully. Psalm 71, which has served as the biblical foundation of Baptist Homes since 1913, reminds us that old age is not a season of retreat from God’s work, but a calling to continued faith, service, and hope.

So, what’s truly golden about the golden years? Not ease or luxury, but the enduring presence and purpose of God in every stage of life.

Neighbor Spotlight: Linda Reese

Linda Reese

A Giving Heart

Linda Reese, one of the friendly faces at Baptist Homes of Adrian, was born on December 4, 1956, in Troy, New York. Over the years, life took her from the East Coast to the Midwest. First, to Kansas in the 1980s, and eventually she settled in Missouri to be closer to her daughter.

Linda and her husband, Floyd, have been married for 20 years. She is the proud mother of four children and has a big, loving family that includes 13 grandchildren. Linda has always had a caring heart—she worked for years as a nurse’s aide and CNA, helping others through her work. That same caring spirit still shines through today in the thoughtful ways she spends her time.

One of Linda’s favorite pastimes is making baby blankets; each one is made with a lot of love. She also enjoys doing puzzles, playing cards, and creating diamond dot art, a relaxing hobby that lets her creative side shine.

Although Linda was raised Catholic, she made a personal decision to be baptized in 2022. She first moved into a different care facility, but found it wasn’t quite what she was looking for. As soon as Baptist Homes of Adrian opened, she made the move and has loved being there.

She’s warm, welcoming, and always up for a chat. We’re grateful to have Linda as part of our community here at Baptist Homes.

 

Employee Spotlight: Linda Gerteman

Linda Gerteman

Faithful Service & Friendly Smile

Meet Linda Gerteman, a dedicated and beloved team member who has faithfully served our Tri-County campus for an incredible 28 years!

Linda’s heart for her work shines through in everything she does. Her favorite part of the job? Making sure every resident feels seen, respected, and cared for—starting with something as personal as their clothing. She takes great pride in ensuring that each item is returned to its rightful owner, knowing how important it is for residents to feel at home. And if something goes missing, she doesn’t stop until it’s found—even if it means searching room to room. Her attention to detail and determination reflect her deep commitment to those she serves.

Linda is always friendly, always helpful, and always dependable. Whether she’s chatting with residents or encouraging coworkers, her positive attitude is a blessing to all who know her.

When she’s not hard at work, Linda enjoys riding her bike and spending time with her children.

Thank you, Linda, for your faithful service and compassionate heart!

From Food Jars to Future Care: Giving to Baptist Homes (Part Four)

From Food Jars to Future Care: Giving to Baptist Homes (Part Four)

From its beginning, Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries (BHHM) has been supported by donors who believe in and support the care for the aged. We continue our review of donor gifting options to BHHM. This month, we look at special circumstances.

 Memorial and Tribute Gifts

Donations can honor or memorialize a loved one or friend, creating a lasting memory. They can also celebrate special life events or people. Gifts have been made to BHHM’s Shepherds Care ministry at BH of Arcadia Valley, which supports ministers and their wives. Many churches in the Missouri Baptist Convention participate in the Anniversary Offering. The Anniversary Offering is given by couples in honor of their wedding anniversary. These gifts support the BHHM general ministry.

Seasonal Giving Programs

BHHM encourages giving at special times of the year for specific purposes. National Nursing Week is May 6-12. BHHM began a fund to encourage nursing professional development and to recruit and retain nurses. BHHM also encourages December giving for a Christmas gift for our residents.

Capital Campaign Contributions

Capital campaign contributions support specific building projects or campus improvements at Baptist Homes. Recent campaigns have funded new construction at our Ashland campus. These gifts can be one-time donations or pledged over several years. Donors can designate their gifts for specific purposes like chapel construction, resident room renovations, or healthcare equipment upgrades. All contributions help BHHM fulfill its mission of Christlike care.

Naming Opportunities

Baptist Homes offers opportunities to name spaces, rooms, or buildings in honor or memory of loved ones through significant donations. These lasting tributes can include resident rooms, dining areas, chapels, or entire facilities. Each naming opportunity has specific giving thresholds. Donors receive recognition through permanent plaques and dedication ceremonies. Such gifts create enduring legacies while supporting BHHM’s mission to provide quality care for aging adults in a Christ-centered environment.

But I Promised

But I Promised

By Dr. Ron Mackey, Vice President, Community Engagement

Many years ago, when I first began working for Baptist Homes, I visited a donor who mentioned that his sister, who was struggling with dementia, had recently moved in with her son and daughter-in-law because living alone was unmanageable. He asked if he could pass along my contact information to his nephew. After a few weeks went by, I received a rather frantic phone call from the nephew.

The nephew was in a panic. Earlier that day, he had received a call from the local police informing him they had picked up his mother, who was found walking down a busy street barefoot and in her nightgown. As we discussed the details – he and his wife needing to work so mom was left home alone, her daily needs being more than he could imagine, and the stress of keeping her content in a strange new place – he became overwhelmed and began to cry. Amid his tears, he uttered a phrase I have heard repeatedly over the years, “I promised dad I would take care of mom and never put her in a nursing home.”

That promise, shared in various ways, always boils down to the same idea – don’t let me end up in a nursing home. That desire is completely understandable, and in many cases justified. There are many reasons for this sentiment. First, we all want to remain independent in our own homes and able to care for ourselves. Second, we’ve heard too many horror stories about nursing homes, and in recent years, we have seen countless advertisements warning us about those ‘dreaded places’. Third, we’ve made promises to loved ones that we now are struggling to keep.

One thing I have learned in dealing with my own aging parents and assisting others in the same struggle is that this is not a straightforward, logic-oriented process. Often the dilemma is necessitated by a health crisis and requires an almost immediate decision. The decision is complicated by the confusing array of possibilities with significant consequences, which can lead you to feel overwhelmed and disoriented.

Throughout this process, you need a trusted guide and friend to help you decide what is best. The Baptist Homes are here to assist you. On each of our campuses, competent, patient, and compassionate staff are there to listen, pray with you, and offer insight to address your questions and concerns. We know how difficult it is to travel this path. It is our calling to assist you in providing the best solutions for your loved ones.

You can reach us at the contact information below:

Baptist Homes of Adrian                                        816-297-8901

Baptist Homes of Arcadia Valley                       573-546-7429

Baptist Homes of Ashland                                    573-657-0506

Baptist Homes of Ozark                                          417-581-2101

Baptist Homes of Shelbina                                   573-588-4175

Baptist Homes of Smithville                                 816-873-6500

Baptist Homes Tri County                                      573-594-6467

If you are facing that difficult decision of honoring your parents’ wishes while ensuring their safety and wellbeing, we are just a phone call away.

In All Things, Pray…

In all things, pray…

When I was nine years old, our family was on vacation when I became ill. That was not unusual for me. I was the kid who got the chicken pox in Colorado, experienced some kind of stomach bug in New Orleans, and had a cast on my leg when we went to the beaches in Florida. This experience was different. We were in northern California, having just visited my aunt, uncle and their kids in Oregon, when I began to have serious health issues. Mom and Dad took me to a nearby hospital in a small town to be examined. They learned that I had a ruptured appendix, and a serious infection had set in. According to the doctor, I had maybe 30 minutes to live without surgery.

Over the years, when my dad told this story, he always made sure to include that was the moment he learned to trust God in prayer. There he was, a young father and relatively new Christian, a thousand miles from home, and alone with his wife, young daughter, and very ill son. Dad’s first instinct was to call our pastor back in Oklahoma to ask him to pray, and then he, my mom, and my sister found the little chapel in the hospital and spent the next several hours praying and fearing the worst.

Well, obviously, I survived, but I have grown up hearing my parents retell this story over and over as a mile marker of great importance in their faith journeys.

As I travel the state, meeting with churches and donors, I am often asked “How can we help the Homes?” My first reply is and always will be, “Please pray for us.” So, for this month’s newsletter, I thought I would share with you how you can pray for Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries.

• Pray for our 440 residents and their families. The whole process of leaving home, moving to a healthcare campus, and learning to let others provide very personal care is one of the most difficult processes in our lives. Aging is a tough process for both the aging senior and their family. Please pray for them.
• Pray for our 400+ employees, especially those who serve aging seniors in direct care. Their jobs are both physically and emotionally challenging. A quality caregiver will experience loss on a regular basis. They grieve in their own ways as they watch a senior physically and emotionally decline and eventually pass from this world. Please pray for them.
• Pray for God’s favor on us as a ministry. Pray that we will have favor among those looking for a place for their aging loved one. Pray that we will have favor among state and federal bureaucracies who regulate and inspect our campuses. Please pray for those entrusted to regulate and inspect our campuses.
• Pray for God’s protection over our physical campuses. This year has been challenging, as we’ve dealt with a tough winter followed by a spring that has brought multiple tornado warnings to our campuses. So far, the damages we’ve had have been minor. Pray for God’s protection over our campuses.
• Pray that God will raise us up to set the standard for what it looks likes to care for the aging in a Christlike manner.

Thank you in advance for your prayers!

Employee Spotlight: Colton Wright