Choosing Faith-Based Senior Care: One Staff Member's Journey to CRISTA Senior Living

When selecting senior living options, many families look beyond amenities and medical support—they seek deeper meaning, alignment of values, and spiritual care. That’s where faith-based senior care is critical and can make a lasting difference.

At CRISTA Senior Living, we believe that caring for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—is foundational to well-being. One of our team members, Lu, recently shared a powerful testimony about how God led her to serve at CRISTA Senior Living and why she believes spiritual support is essential in retirement living.

A Calling, Not Just a Career

Lu came to CRISTA from Eritrea, a small country in East Africa where Christians face intense persecution. For more than two decades, she and her family worshipped in secret—hosting underground house churches despite threats of imprisonment.

When Lu and her family moved to Washington, they landed directly across from the CRISTA Ministries campus, also home to Cristwood Park in Shoreline, WA. One look at the “castle” across the street, and Lu felt a strong sense of calling. She said,_ “I said, ‘Lord, what is this place? I want to work here. I prayed about it, applied, and the Lord led me to CRISTA.”_ Now she works as the Cristwood Park Receptionist, greeting visitors and residents as soon as they enter the doors.

Why Faith-Based Senior Care Matters

Lu’s story illustrates what makes faith-based senior care distinct: it’s driven by more than a paycheck or protocol. It’s about showing up with purpose and honoring each resident as an image bearer of God.

“In Eritrea, we lived day by day depending on the Holy Spirit—for guidance, protection, daily bread,” Lu shared._ “I’ve asked God to help me depend on Him even in small things. That kind of faith has guided every part of my life—including my decision to work in a place where faith is lived out daily.” _

Lu and her husband even co-authored a book, The Life of Glory, chronicling their experiences with underground ministry and how they witnessed God’s presence in the darkest moments. “Even in persecution, we lived in glory because the Holy Spirit never left us,” she says. That same Spirit-led care is what she now brings to her role at CRISTA Senior Living.

At CRISTA, our team members don’t just provide professional care—they offer prayer, encouragement, and spiritual companionship. This is not limited to those on our chaplain team. Whether leading worship, praying with residents, or simply being a faithful presence, all team members believe that Christ-centered care transforms lives.

Choosing Faith with Confidence

If you or a loved one is considering retirement care, ask yourself what kind of support matters most. At CRISTA, we believe that faith-based retirement care doesn’t just meet physical needs—it nurtures the soul. Lu’s story reminds us that when care is rooted in faith, it creates space for healing, hope, and a more profound sense of belonging.

Ready to Learn More About Faith-Based Retirement Care?

At CRISTA Senior Living, spiritual support is part of everyday life—embedded into our care, community, and relationships. If you’re looking for a place where faith and compassionate care go hand in hand, we invite you to give us a call or schedule a tour today! Visit cristaseniorliving.org or call 206-452-4074 to learn more.