Greetings on the 50th observance of Earth Day and the 5th anniversary of Laudato Si!
Today, we recall in a special way that we are stewards of God’s creation. This morning, Pope Francis reminded us that Earth Day is an occasion to ”renew our commitment to love our common home, which is not a warehouse to exploit.” He instructed us to “care for it and for the weakest members of our human family.” We are grateful to our Sister Mary Elizabeth Lawrence for sharing the work of the Care for Creation Committee at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, AZ. Click here to learn ways you can help.
During this perilous time, we realize that each and every inhabitant of the Earth has been made vulnerable by the coronavirus. You have been steadfast in praying for us and with us for those affected by the disease in any way. You have been faithful partners in Charity in supporting our mission and ministries of caring for others. Our Sister Rachel Blais works tirelessly to help impoverished persons in Morgantown, WV. View a brief video clip of a recent food distribution she organized that made Easter dinner possible for many families in need.
The sisters and our wonderful staff at Caritas Christi have graciously accepted the “new normal” of the quarantine. Our employees have temperatures taken at the start of each shift. They all wear masks throughout the workday. Sisters Lindena Brace and Hyeon Lee, who both live on the Caritas Christi complex, cannot work at their teaching ministries during the quarantine. They have been generously helping the staff tending to sisters’ needs and participating in the housekeeping chores. Everyone enjoys their presence and support.
Resident sisters also have their temperatures taken daily. Many will use a mask when they are in close proximity to second-floor residents who require nursing care. They are very protective of their vulnerable sisters. At mealtime, the sisters sit two to a table instead of four, to support distancing efforts. This necessitated opening the McCullough Meeting Room for dining space. There the sisters have the benefit of easy listening dinner music. Mealtime conversations are relaxed and enjoyable.
Our staff members always go the extra mile and provide a special touch to make the quarantine experience as pleasant as is it can be. Sisters have been enjoying recreation and games, exercising together, and joyfully celebrations of birthdays and other special occasions. Most especially, the sisters enjoy the celebration of daily Mass with Monsignor Rathgeb. Love abounds among the sisters and the staff in our home.
We hope you will continue to join our prayers for those who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic. We are truly blessed by your commitment to helping protect the health and wellness of our elder sisters. We could not do it without your love, prayers, and support.
Know we are praying for you and those you love. Please continue to help us care for the most vulnerable among us throughout the earth, our beautiful common home.