(Sherri Easdon, UMCH) - Residents at Wesley Gardens in Montgomery will soon hear the relaxing sound of cascading water from a new courtyard fountain, thanks to the efforts of area pastors, and volunteers and donors.
Among those getting their hands dirty at the installation on May 2 were Frazer UMC Adult Education Minister Charles Wise, Joel Epler (son of Frazer associate pastor Dr. Neil Epler), Rev. Stan Mullins, a resident of Wesley Gardens and the community’s Chaplain, along with the community’s maintenance supervisor Chris Polk and his friend Joe Riley. Larry Summerlin, contractor for the recently constructed Life Enrichment Center at Wesley Gardens, donated his time and the use the heavy equipment to lift the fountain into place, saving Wesley Gardens plenty of money and man hours.
Rev. Stan Mullins spearheaded the effort to raise money for the fountain project at Wesley Gardens, an assisted living retirement community, which is part of Methodist Homes of Alabama and Northwest Florida.
“I looked out at the courtyard and said to myself, this place needs a fountain,” said Rev. Mullins. “We want to build a community and get people more interested in what’s going on.” He then contacted his daughter, an attorney, who composed a letter that went out to 75 of Rev. Mullins’ former church members and friends. In 3 weeks they held $1,600 toward the purchase of the fountain.
“The fountain will make residents want to go outside, stand close to it, watch it, walk around it,” said Rev. Mullins. It’s good for mental health and disposition.”
Randy Allen, Wesley Gardens’ administrator, said that the test run on the fountain showed that it is working great. “With just a few final touches, the fountain and pool should be fully operational in another week or so,” Mr. Allen said. “Once the fountain is running, we will plan a courtyard reception to thank the pastors, donors and volunteers who helped make the fountain a reality.”
