Newbury Court Resident, Reverend Steven M. Seminerio, at the remarkable age of 98, was recently honored with the Golden Cane Award, a recognition for the oldest and longest-serving minister within the New England Conference of the United Methodist Church. For Rev. Seminerio, this is just the latest in a long series of milestones in a life devoted to faith, service, and community.
Throughout his 42 years of ministry service, Rev. Seminerio served several churches in Massachusetts: from Trinity UMC in Medford to First UMC in Melrose and many others, including a 17-year tenure as a counselor and director at Rolling Ridge Retreat and Conference Center. Rev. Seminerio is also a World War II veteran who served as a corpsman with the 6th Marine Division, including in the Battle of Okinawa.
Along with his wife, Marilyn, Rev. Seminerio has been a resident of Newbury Court in Concord, Massachusetts, since 2007. He has been a constant presence in the community’s Duvall Chapel—from his service as a liturgist on Sunday mornings to participation in regular studies and dramatic presentations over the years. As Newbury Court Chaplain Rev. Kristin Rinehimer has said, “He’s a gentle giant with a big voice and a kind heart. And he’s known to many for his faithful, daily prayer practice. He starts every morning by reading a chapter of the Bible and praying for folks. He lets many of us know, ‘I’m praying for you,’ which is really a quiet but powerful ministry among our Newbury Court family.”
Rev. Seminerio’s ability to connect with others has been a cornerstone of his long life of service. Rev. Kristin Rinehimer shared at the Golden Cane Award ceremony, “Steve is someone who is steadily faithful, and that has been very calming for our congregation.” This steadiness, grounded in daily prayer and unwavering commitment, has been the hallmark of Rev. Seminerio’s ministry.