President’s Perspective
Concordia Lutheran Ministries:
A Trusted Partner in Christian Care
At our July 19 Bible study, we were pleased to welcome Karen Daum, Chief Development Officer, and Shirley Freyer, Director of Church Relations, from Concordia Lutheran Ministries (CLM). For those not familiar with CLM, it is a faith-based non-profit that offers a wide range of senior care and health services across western Pennsylvania and beyond. Karen and Shirley presented an informative overview of CLM's mission, history, and ministry.
Founded in 1881 by LCMS congregations in the Pittsburgh area, CLM has faithfully served individuals and families for 145 years. Throughout its history, CLM has relied on the faithful support of member congregations like Zion, whose gifts of time, talent, and treasure have helped sustain and expand this vital ministry to 25 facilities. As a member congregation, Zion is a partner in this shared mission. CLM remains firmly rooted in the Christian values on which it was founded: comfort, compassion, healing, and service. It provides discounts to veterans and support to help them access government benefits. As a partner church, Zion members receive priority access to a broad range of services, including:
Independent Living – Worry-free senior living communities for independent active older adults.
Home and Community Services – Home health care, hospice, and palliative care that allow individuals to receive quality care in the comfort of their own homes.
Short-Term Rehabilitation – Skilled nursing and therapy services to help individuals recover after surgery, illness, or injury.
Personal Care and Assisted Living – Compassionate assistance with daily living in a safe, supportive environment.
Memory Support – Specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, emphasizing dignity and quality of life.
Long-Term Skilled Nursing Care – Professional and faith-based care for residents requiring 24/7 nursing support.
A key part of CLM's ministry is caring for those with limited financial resources and ensure that no resident is asked to leave because of financial hardship. Last year alone, CLM provided $12.5 million in benevolent care to nearly 500 residents. As people live longer and insurance coverage for long-term care continues to decline, the need for financial assistance grows, making the support of member congregations more important than ever.
If you or a loved one needs any of Concordia's services, simply contact the Concordia location of your choice and let them know you are a member of an LCMS congregation. As a partner congregation, Zion members receive special consideration for available services.
– Bob Schmidt
