Garrison to end her work with Wellness Ministry in May.

The position of director of the Wellness Ministry of the Church of the Brethren is being eliminated as of May 30. The elimination of this position is happening because of the economic recession and the budget reduction put in place by the Mission and Ministry Board at its Spring meeting. Each person whose position is eliminated because of the budget reduction is receiving a three-month severance package of regular salary and benefits and outplacement services.

Mary Lou Garrison’s service as director of the Wellness Ministry ends May 30. She has worked part-time as director of the ministry since Aug. 1, 2006. The position was started as a collaboration between the former Association of Brethren Caregivers and General Board, and Brethren Benefit Trust. Prior to her appointment to the Wellness Ministry, Garrison had worked as director of Human Resources for the General Board. During her tenure with the Wellness Ministry, she worked to promote wellness for church members and the goals of the ministry in congregations, districts, and agencies throughout the denomination, with special attention to those enrolled in the Brethren Medical Plan. She developed, coordinated, and managed a resource bureau of people from across the church with expertise in health education. In addition, she coordinated and helped write a weekly list serve publication offering ideas for healthy living and healthy eating, led women’s wellness retreats, and led wellness events at Annual Conference.

Source: 3/25/2009 Newsline