A Community Gathers in Celebration of Love

It was going to be a small, intimate wedding. But when both the bride and groom are residents at American House Milford and the officiant is their CRD, the chances of that happening are pretty slim. Turns out, the number was well over 100 people!

John and Pat had known each other for 36 years, having met at a Parents Without Partners dance when their spouses passed. They started attending church together and were there for each other. John took care of Pat when she was sick, he raised four loving children after his wife died—for Pat, this meant so much.

“I fell in love with John because of the goodness in him,” she said.

Over time, the couple’s families became friendly. One day, John’s daughter referred to Pat as her “Father’s girlfriend” and that got Pat thinking.

“I just wanted to be married in the eyes of God,” she said.

So Pat approached John “J.J.” Jenkins, American House CRD and ordained minister, and asked if he’d marry them.

“At first I said ‘nah’,” joked J.J. But then, of course, he was thrilled to help make their love official. As to honoring their request to keep it small, that one was completely out of his hands.

“Well, around here, word of mouth travels fast,” J.J. said.

This was the first marriage at American House Milford, but it may not be the last ceremony. In fact, since the big wedding, several residents have approached J.J. to have their marriages blessed, and he’s ready and willing.

Doing good for others is part of J.J.’s DNA. As a church member in Atlanta, his only goal was to help others. He began by heading up several ministries, worked with the Salvation Army supporting seniors and volunteered at the children’s church. With his passion for helping the homeless, he delivered food to shelters, earning him the nickname “The Grocery Man.” Getting ordained was a natural step in his giving lifestyle.

When he accepted the role of CRD at American House Milford, extending his faith in service to the seniors wasn’t part of the plan—it just happened.

“Residents would come into my office and need someone to talk to,” he said. “I wasn’t sure where it would lead, then I said, ‘I know one day I can dedicate time to and that was Sunday.’” Now, J.J. has a flock at his Sunday service at American House, which led him to John and Pat.

“I’m so grateful to him,” Pat said of J.J. “Everything ran so smoothly. He had set out beautiful flowers, he was dressed impeccably. It was just perfect!”

We all have a story. A story that taught us something, changed us and helped define who we are. Our seniors have amazing stories that hold a wealth of wisdom. At American House, your next chapter is waiting to be written. We’re here to help you write it. Your way.