“If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, pick up his cross, and follow me.”
— Luke 9:23 (a guiding scripture for Jerry & Glennis Butler)
For Jerry and Glennis Butler of Palmetto, Florida, the journey to becoming certified PAIRS instructors is rooted in a shared passion: helping others find hope, healing, and healthier relationships.
Recently certified, the Butlers are preparing to offer their first PAIRS classes to their community and congregation. While they haven’t yet led a course, they’re already champions of the tools and skills they’ve learned — and they’re eager to get started.
“PAIRS has inspired me to begin this journey of healing and to help others find a better way to live life to the fullest,” Jerry shares.
Discovering the Power of PAIRS
What first drew the Butlers to PAIRS? A desire to strengthen not only their own relationship, but to offer others a path toward connection and emotional growth.
“The Daily Temperature Reading, Love Knots, and Emptying the Emotional Jug blew me away,” Jerry says. “These are tools everyone — married or single — needs.”
Among the many skills they value, Jerry especially appreciates how PAIRS encourages partners to repeat back what they’ve heard. “It calls for oneness in a relationship. That’s powerful.”
A Ministry of Encouragement and Healing
Both Jerry and Glennis bring years of life experience to their new roles. Jerry, a retired Chaplain with the Department of Veteran Affairs, feels called to serve those in need of encouragement, counseling, and hope. He’s especially passionate about supporting individuals facing addiction, PTSD, suicide risk, and those in the LGBTQ community.
“I was called into the ministry to help others,” Jerry says. “To remind them there’s a way out — if they’re willing to change how they think and feel about themselves and do the work.”
This mission aligns perfectly with the core of PAIRS: providing practical tools for emotional safety, empathy, and meaningful connection.
“Jerry and Glennis Butler exemplify the heart and mission of PAIRS,” says Seth Eisenberg, President & CEO of PAIRS Foundation. “Their deep faith, compassion, and dedication to helping others heal and grow are truly inspiring. We’re honored to welcome them to the PAIRS family and excited to see the positive impact they will bring to their community and beyond.”
Faith as a Foundation
The Butlers’ values are deeply rooted in their faith.
“God first. Love thy neighbor as thyself. Seek the Kingdom of Heaven first, and all these things will be added unto you,” Jerry explains, quoting Matthew 22:40 and 6:33. “Forsake not the assembly.”
Their pastor, whom Jerry describes as a knowledgeable, compassionate leader and family man, has been a significant influence. “He leads by example,” Jerry says. “When I retired, he and his wife spent the whole day with my family. He’s a friend I can always call.”
A Message for the Next Generation
When asked what advice he would offer to young people navigating today’s complex relationships and life challenges, Jerry responds with humility and conviction:
“Get into the Word. Find a good church and pastor. Be open to help, like PAIRS. Whatever the symptom may be, it can be addressed if one is willing to do the work.”
Looking Ahead
Jerry and Glennis are enthusiastic about launching their first PAIRS classes and spreading the benefits of relationship education.
“PAIRS training was so helpful,” Jerry says. “I’ll encourage other chaplains to take this course. It will benefit veterans and so many others. Seth Eisenberg and Rachel Marmor gave such a great presentation. Their knowledge and compassion will be remembered.”
For more information on upcoming PAIRS classes in Palmetto, Florida, contact Jerry & Glennis Butler by email to jerrybutler777@yahoo.com or call (803) 556-4333.
“What the Lord has done for me, I can’t shed enough tears.” — Jerry Butler
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