Staff Blogger: Mallory Glenn- Advancement & Communications Assistant

In addition to the critical upgrades that will take place at the Pavilion for this year’s #GivingTuesday project, we’re excited to announce that Lakeside will commemorate the Rev. Irwin and Janet Jennings by naming the Pavilion East Deck in their honor.

The Jennings, beloved longtime Lakesiders, have given much to the community. Irwin has served as Chair of the Lakeside Chautauqua Board of Directors and recently retired as the Dockside Worship Service Coordinator after 12 years. Janet has served as President of the Lakeside Women’s Club and has supported the Dockside Worship Service alongside her husband.

Irwin began his ministry 42 years ago. He first retired from Medina United Methodist Church in 2001 before joining Lakeside in 2006 to serve as the Dockside Worship Service Coordinator & Pastor in Residence. However, Lakeside has been a special part of his life for more than 55 years.

One of his first and fondest memories at Lakeside was his ordination at Hoover Auditorium in 1962. He continued visiting, and 11 years later, he and Janet purchased a summer cottage for their family. By 2015, the couple moved to Lakeside where they now live eight months of the year, spending the rest of their time in Sarasota, Florida near family.

Throughout Irwin’s Lakeside ministry, Janet and the Jennings’ daughter, Beth, have served alongside him as regular communion stewards and assisted with the setup of communion tables, paraments and elements for worshippers.

Together, Irwin and Janet have helped strengthen Lakesiders’ relationship with God and have made a significant, positive impact on the Lakeside community.

“The first few summers, I was always surprised when Lakesiders would approach me on the grounds and comment on the sermon or service,” said Irwin. “We wanted to develop and deliver a meaningful sermon and worship experience everyone could relate to.”

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