Bellerose Convalescent Hospital
Mary Covello has brought her dog, Buddy, with her when she has visited Bellerose Convalescent Hospital. The residents enjoy watching him hop on a chair beside the bed, and petting him. In the activity room he puts a smile on everyone’s face.
Ministering comes in many forms.
Willow Glen Convalescent Home
One of the Nurses Aides at Willow Glen Convalescent Home, wrote a thank you note to Sr. Rose Mary and the Pastoral Care Ministers for “giving us the spiritual time that blesses our Tuesdays.” Volunteers from St. Leo’s Parish, who lead residents in the rosary, agreed to follow our 10:00 a.m. Communion Service. What a way to say thanks and deepen meditation!
Then, a few weeks ago, a young aide started gathering residents for us. We would arrive to find ten to twelve persons ready to begin. This helped us to be more collected ourselves for leading the prayers. In addition, a special room has been set aside, making possible a more reverent atmosphere. As a special benefit during the summer vacation, one volunteer brought along her little children, happily reminding those present that we all belong to the family of St. Martin’s. Without any conscious effort on our part, the Holy Spirit continues to grace our visits to Willow Glen.
White Blossom Convalescent Hospital
Spiritual treasures are enjoyed by the Guardian Foundation’s participating residents in many ways.....
Pastoral Care Ministers bring Holy Communion and share the rosary with the residents each week. After the religious events are completed, Kay will usually play a few beautiful spiritual songs from her CD library, or Marge will sing the familiar lyrics of old-time favorite tunes for the residents’ enjoyment. They will then use their remaining time for personal visits to bedridden residents. Always, each person brings a loving, compassionate heart, a gentle touch, a warm smile, a listening ear and a brief prayer to these confined people.
The Hospital's Activity Director expressed her desire for greater resident participation in these activities. And so, one capable, Catholic Guardian resident has begun leading some residents in the rosary on Fridays. Please remember the Guardian’s residents in your prayers.
One unexpected spiritual treasure recently realized was the conversion of one resident to the Catholic faith.
We all witnessed the beautiful wonder of God’s love at the Guardian Foundation. It is a most overpowering spiritual treasure bestowed on everyone...Jesus’ unconditional love for each of us always!
Skyline Convalescent Hospital
Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest, as approved by the National Council of Catholic Bishops, continue to be led by parishioners weekly at Skyline Convalescent Hospital. Those who would like to join in leading these celebration, please call Sr. Rose Mary at 289-9617.
Leo Strutner
Are you called to this ministry?
The preceding articles relate rich experiences as we minister to the sick. You, too, can share in the richness by joining us in this ministry. Pray about it, then call Sister Rose Mary in the Pastoral Services Office at 289-9617. She will put you in touch with someone assigned to one of our seven convalescent hospitals and you can “shadow” the minister(s) to find out if this is indeed a calling.
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