How can we express our sadness as we mourn the loss of May-Ellen Colón? May-Ellen was a colleague, a mentor, and a friend to many in the Adventist Community Services family. Her perspective on community work informed much of what we do today and her contributions will live on in the resources she helped create as well as the mindset she instilled in many of us.
For instance, May-Ellen co-produced the Community Development and Urban Ministries handbook available at AdventSource, the Community Services and Urban Ministries online certification available on the Adventist Learning Community. She presented at numerous Nonprofit Leadership Certification Programs and traveled the world promoting teaching and encouraging churches and Adventist Community Services leaders to work with, not for their neighbors.
“A life lesson that I learned from Dr. May-Ellen Colón is that Christianity begins when we put others before and above us. As we traveled together to over a dozen countries to provide Adventist Community Services (ACS) ministry workshops and seminars, I was impressed with her steadfast love for God and compassionate heart for people. Dr. May-Ellen Colón’s legacy of ACS ministry will continually inspire and challenge the generation to follow.” – Sung Kwon, Director, M.A. Leadership in Social Innovation
Even in retirement, May-Ellen was active in assisting the community of Oahu where she and her husband retired in 2020, as well as continuing to serve on committees with the NAD and GC ACS departments.
“I was saddened to hear of the passing of our friend May-Ellen Colón. She was an innovative thinker that believed the impossible could be a reality. She will be missed not only as a friend, but also her valuable input and encouragement.”- Derrick Lea, Director of NAD Adventist Community Services
We are devastated at the loss of a fine mind, a willing heart and a kind servant of God. May-Ellen’s consistent and persist ministry has created a profound legacy that is continued in the work each of you do as you serve communities in Christ’s name.
GalleryRemembering May-Ellen
