Our cherished Friend Joe Garren has been an integral part of the Pendle Hill community since May 2008. Bringing skills from years of restaurant, hospitality, Quaker volunteerism, and event services, Joe has served as the Director of Operations, a core role for all that unfolds at Pendle Hill. Joe also brought with him deep and abiding spiritual gifts and experience from which we have benefitted greatly.
During his tenure, Joe has helped lead the effort to establish fiscal responsibility along with increased income through improved services. He has guided and overseen an incredible number of staff members who make the food and the beds, and most especially, welcome our many guests with radical hospitality. Imbued with his Quaker faith, Joe has created a ministry of seeking and outreach to visitors and staff. His witness has helped spread the word of the Religious Society of Friends.
Through these years, Joe has continued to serve New York Yearly Meeting to which he will return as he departs from Pendle Hill. He leaves us with memories of his ministry, hard work and long hours, exquisite flower arrangements, singing in the hallways, deep presence in daily worship, and his prompt and loving attention to our visitors and his joyful smile.
On behalf of the Pendle Hill Board, Gretchen T. Hall, Clerk 16th day/7th month/2016
