Residents Caring for the Refuge

Quiet Hands, Loving Hearts: Residents Caring for the Refuge 

At Chestnut Hill Benevolent Association, the spirit of home is felt in countless quiet ways. The BA is more than a campus—it is a refuge, lovingly maintained and deeply cherished by all who live and work here. And there are many areas of the BA that reflect the thoughtfulness of Residents who, through selfless service, express their gratitude for the continuity of the healing mission of the BA. 

One such Resident recently undertook the quiet, steady work of refinishing the benches around campus. 

“When I started, I thought there were maybe four benches. And then I went around campus looking and got up to six, then found all TEN! So over the course of a year I refinished all ten of them.” 

Refinishing ten benches was no small task. The process required sanding, scraping, brightening, sealing—and, above all, patience. Each bench took about eight days to complete, with careful attention to weather and drying time between each coat. 

“We have Residents here who are gardeners. I’m not really a gardener, but I love being outside, and I love making things look pretty. It’s always so wonderful making things look a little more cared for, a little more loved.” 

When asked what inspires such projects, the Resident shared: 

“I think this is a natural place for us to expect to see the expression of Soul—which is beauty, color, and a sense of being loved and appreciated. That’s the atmosphere here at the BA, and you just want to see those qualities expressed even more.” 

This tender care is not limited to benches. Around campus, Residents quietly find ways to contribute their gifts and talents, adding depth and beauty to the atmosphere of the refuge. 

For years, a volunteer faithfully tended the circle garden at the east end of the Original Building, ensuring it was lovely through every season. When she decided to step back, another Resident—new to the BA and with a view of that very garden—joyfully took up the work. She’s since planted tomatoes, which she brings to dinner to share with others. 

Other Residents express beauty through music and art. One plays the piano at every hymn sing, filling the space with melody and inspiration. Another shares her photography, gracing BA publications with her artistic eye. 

Each of these thoughtful contributions, quiet and heartfelt, weaves together into something greater—a tapestry of care, gratitude, and love. Together, these expressions of Soul create and sustain an atmosphere of home that supports the refuge of the Benevolent Association.