Love in the Air at Phoebe Wyncote

Joan Flannery and Ed Morgan, two independent living residents at Phoebe Wyncote, officially proclaimed their love for each other on Friday, September 27. Residents, staff, and family members gathered for a beautiful wedding ceremony held at the Wyncote campus.

The event was initially intended to be an intimate and small affair, but as support for the couple grew, the increased buzz caused the Community Life department to reconsider the scale of the ceremony. 

Phoebe Wyncote’s hardworking staff decorated the dining area and one of the main common areas shortly before the event. The result was a wedding backdropped by a bright blue and white theme, floral accents, tablecloths, silver plates, and a thank you card placed at every seat.

It’s somewhat rare to see a wedding ceremony at any Phoebe campus. According to Phoebe Wyncote’s Human Resources Business Partner, Nykima Gorey, this was a first for the Philadelphia-adjacent community.

Chaplain Pat Cashman welcomed everyone to the ceremony and explained that she would conduct an abridged version of a Christian wedding. She introduced Flannery to an eager audience as she walked down the aisle to meet her soon-to-be husband.

The couple beamed with pride as they met at the altar, Morgan wearing a simple black suit with a red tie and Flannery wearing a flowery pink dress.

The audience was treated to two musical performances during the service. The first was by Mike Todd, Associate Pastor at Wentz’s United Church of Christ, who gave an endearing, acoustic guitar-driven performance. The second was by Phoebe Wyncote resident Luba Mackouse, who performed an upbeat acapella tune complete with finger snaps.

One of the most memorable moments of the afternoon was when, shortly after slipping rings onto each other’s fingers, Flannery said, “I love you,” to which Morgan responded with, “I love you more.” Flannery retorted with a cheeky “That’s impossible!”

The couple shared their vows, kissed each other, and led the way to the dining area where the party was just beginning. It was clear that the staff went to great lengths to ensure the room resembled a professional wedding reception venue.

As everyone settled in, the newlywed couple spent time thanking each individual for coming and showing their support.

Flannery and Morgan’s first dance was another highlight. Flannery clung to Morgan with palpable devotion as the two swayed along to the music.

Phoebe Wyncote staff served each table with appetizers, drinks, and treats throughout the rest of the afternoon. The dessert table was particularly impressive as it was filled with delectable delights of different varieties, all colored blue and white to resemble the theme.

Between moments of excitement and dancing, Flannery could be seen lovingly resting her head on Morgan’s shoulder. The event surely brought the Wyncote community even closer together.

Phoebe Ministries wishes the best for the future of Joan Flannery and Ed Morgan.

To learn more about Phoebe Wyncote’s tight-knit and loving community, please visit phoebe.org/wyncote.