A Calling Fulfilled
Spirituality can positively enhance the quality of life for seniors, leading to stronger emotional and physical health outcomes, reduced feelings of isolation, and an overall greater sense of belonging and purpose.
Many residents can find comfort in living among others who share their religious beliefs, especially when guided by inspiring spiritual leaders who are able to promote spiritual growth through worship, prayer groups, and bible study sessions that help foster connection among residents.
For Reverend Brandon Cox, the path to assuming leadership duties within the church community was more than just a formal milestone—it was a personal and spiritual affirmation of a lifelong calling. At Ingleside, a place where community and faith intersect deeply, Brandon’s journey to ordination has been a testament to his longstanding commitment to faith, service to the community, and strength of meaningful relationships.
“I was called to preach at age 14 by my bishop, who played a major role in my spiritual heritage and discovery,” Reverend Cox shared. “My first email was revbrandoncox@yahoo.com when I was very young—who would’ve thought that such an innocent gesture would be realized more than a decade later?” Starting out as a singer in ministry, Brandon soon took on leadership roles, teaching, praying, and preaching at ministry events. His recent ordination, he says, reminds him that he is “who I’ve always been,” only now with the credentials to support his work.
Brandon’s path has spanned clinical settings at institutions like the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Medstar Washington Hospital Center, and the University of Virginia’s University Hospital. Yet, when it came time to envision his future of where he wanted to make an impact, Ingleside stood out.
“As I interviewed, I realized that serving here was an opportunity to cultivate meaningful relationships with residents, families, and staff through storytelling, preaching, and programming,” Brandon explained. “I appreciate the many lifetimes the residents and staff have lived, and we journey together through the stories that have shaped their presence in this moment.”
With his ordination complete, Brandon says the title “Rev.” won’t change much of his day-to-day work. “It comes with great responsibility,” he says, acknowledging his plans to “continue listening to the Divine while navigating the work and the people who make it meaningful.”
Brandon’s ordination celebration at Ingleside was filled with music, readings, and blessings—crafted with intentionality by Chaplain Dana Olson, also Reverend and a cherished co-laborer. “These elements were special to me because they crossed liturgical and professional lines, bringing our community together not just to celebrate my ordination, but to add to the pages of my life that shape my ministry, both professionally and personally.”
Ingleside’s spiritual life thrives on collaboration. Brandon works closely with Deacon Monte, Fr. Gary, Fr. Peter, and Susan to honor the diverse faiths of residents. “I have the highest honor to navigate the Divine through many lenses,” he said. One example is a resident who practices meditation with Bhante Katugastota Uparatana, a Buddhist monk who visits weekly, enriching her spiritual routine and offering comfort.
Looking forward, Reverend Cox plans to deepen ties with the AME Church to bring more spiritual enrichment to Ingleside. “I want to leverage resources and relationships to offer field trips, speaker series, and learning opportunities—connecting residents with a tradition that renews me and supports the work ahead.”
At Ingleside, Reverend Brandon Cox’s ordination marks a new chapter—not just in title, but in ongoing dedication to the spiritual well-being of this vibrant community. His journey reminds us all of the power of calling, connection, and compassionate service.
To learn more about Ingleside’s faith-based programming and services, visit https://inglesideonline.org/.