SOULcial Salute April 2025
Greg Loomis, Chaplain, Haven Homes Cassia, Maple Plain, MN
From Philadelphia to Minneapolis
Greg Loomis grew up in Philadelphia, but his calling led him to the Twin Cities. There, he devoted 30 years to pastoral ministry, shepherding countless families. Before entering full-time pastorship, Greg spent eight years ministering to college students through Campus Crusade for Christ. During that time, he was also blessed to meet his beloved wife, with whom he has now shared over 38 years of marriage.
The Path to Serving Seniors
After “retiring” from full-time pastoral ministry in the Evangelical Free Church, Greg continued serving as an interim pastor in three congregations in Minneapolis, Mound and Watertown. Walking alongside his aging parents helped him recognize a new calling—ministering to seniors. To Greg, this felt like a natural evolution in his lifelong mission: from students to families to older adults.
His strong roots in the Evangelical Free Church made Cassia—formerly Elim—a natural fit. Soon, he connected with Haven Homes in Maple Plain, conveniently close to his home in Watertown.
Ministering to Older Adults
Greg began serving at Haven Homes in 2019 while it was still in its old building. He walked with residents and staff through the transition into the new facility in 2020. That milestone brought both excitement and challenges.
Greg deeply values Cassia’s mission: “Fostering fullness of life for older adults in the spirit of Christ’s love.” He appreciates how this mission is woven into daily life at Haven Homes. Each staff meeting begins with a Bible verse, prayer, and a reflection on one of Cassia’s eight service standards.
The Everyday Service of Seniors
Every morning at Haven Homes begins with a spiritual foundation. Greg then follows a structured yet personal schedule of worship services, Bible studies, hymn sings, small groups, grief support, and one-on-one counseling. He also ministers to the dying.
Local churches play a vital role, with ten congregations rotating throughout the year to lead worship. This partnership enriches the spiritual life of residents and strengthens community bonds.
Grief support is also essential. Greg understands that grief takes many forms. Beyond losing a spouse, seniors mourn close friends, siblings, or even pets. They grieve leaving their longtime home, losing independence, or giving up cherished possessions. Greg provides space for residents to process these losses and find peace in God’s presence.
The Most Personal Services
Greg approaches individual ministry with great intentionality. Whether supporting a resident, staff member, or grieving family, he listens with full attention.
At Haven Homes, the ministry of presence is a shared responsibility. The close-knit community ensures that needs are quickly recognized and brought to Greg’s attention. He stands ready to serve, wherever and whenever he is needed.
A Sacred Farewell: The Honor Walk
One of the most meaningful traditions at Haven Homes is the Honor Walk. When a resident passes away, they are draped with the Honor Quilt or, when appropriate, the American flag. Staff and residents line the halls in silence to offer a final farewell.
This sacred tradition honors not only the life of the departed but also the bonds of friendship they shared. It allows the community to grieve together, reflect, and express gratitude for their neighbor’s life.
Greg Loomis continues to answer God’s call, bringing comfort, faith, and companionship to seniors. His journey, shaped by a lifetime of service, reflects Christ’s love—a love that transcends every season of life.