Recently I was honored by the Administrative Staff at Holy Family Home in Brooklyn, New York for five years of service as the Director of Pastoral Care. During these years I have found myself involved in a variety of expressions of our charism.

During these past two years I have also participated with Administration and Management in efforts toward forming a cohesive team. Under the direction of our guide -- Mrs. Nance, from California -- to more compassionately serve our residents and to effectively collaborate with our staff, we have been led through an exercise. We go to the “zoo,” in which each of us assumes both the characteristics and needs of a particular animal. From these “zoo-like experiences,” we have concretely modeled for our collective staff events and moments of appreciation. We recently planned, cooked and served a meal for our employees. It proved to be an informal way of getting to know one another.

Another aspect of serving was the way in which we celebrated our volunteers this year. We engaged a speaker who reflected with them on their generosity, hospitality and volunteerism.

On Sunday, May 13th, we had a celebration for all those women at our home who exemplify the characteristics of motherhood. Each of our female residents was given a corsage. During the Liturgy, Fr. Gerald Emem Umoren, PhD, reflected on each person's “yes” so that another/others could experience life. Each of the women received an individual blessing and was helped to place a carnation at the feet of the Blessed Mother. One of the women was wheeled to the statue of the Blessed Mother and assisted with the May crowning. Sr. Mary Veronica Donohue was present for the day to assist with the Mother's Day celebration.

Dear Sisters, because of your support, I feel empowered to do my part to bring the face of Jesus into the company of those among whom I am called to serve.