August 7, 2020
Dear Families,
I truly had hoped by this time in 2020 “life” would have returned to normality. The challenge seems to be ongoing – which can really try our patience. But in spite of the world which is now ours, we all can count our blessings, which I believe are still many.
Some of you are probably aware I am now limited because I had an in-home accident. I’m nursing a broken ankle which is limiting my mobility for a number of weeks. It has been a reminder how blessed I have been - for many long years. It is a very unique experience for me to be so dependent on the goodness of others. As you would probably expect, I am surrounded by some of the most competent, compassionate and loving people you could find anywhere in the world. They are here for me – night and day! This is true inside the walls of Misericordia and beyond!
I must admit I won’t be sorry when the year 2020 comes to an end. It has been a year not only demanding here at Misericordia because of the virus, but also because of personal losses. And yet, there is so much to thank God for – especially here at Misericordia. The Executive Team, Administrators, and staff have been outstanding. The residents are still enjoying great lives on the campus and in their CILA’s. Our staff never disappoints!!
Under the leadership of Mary Pat O’Brien and her wonderful Administrators - Denise Tigges, Chris Krackenberger, Joe Ferrara, Michael Diaz, Tina Stendardo, Geana Connelly, Abby Murray, and their staffs – residents enjoy different but life giving days within their cohorts. They are truly blessed people because of our outstanding staff! Their “home” is now different but their lives continue to be happy and full of purpose. The ingenuity of the staff has been amazing.
As always, our Executive Team - Lois, Fr. Jack and Kevin – are finding creative ways of compensating for the loss of so many of our yearly fundraisers. They are working closely with all our loving groups to come up with novel ideas. I’m in awe of how they and all our wonderful members are able to face this most different time with great hope and trust. They expect to be successful in all their efforts. And this too continues to be true! Misericordia is a blessed place because we are “believers.” We know we are doing God’s work! Therefore, we trust we will never have to walk this journey without the blessing of the Lord. If we ever lose this “focus” then we could be in trouble.
It is encouraging to see the construction work begin on the new homes on the 3½ acres which was Unity Church. This will enable us to reduce the population in our Marian Residence, as well as reach out to more families on our waiting list.
And if you drive by our recently purchased property on Ravenswood, you will see the new “drive thru bakery” construction moving ahead as planned. This development will enable us to have an additional retail bake shop while providing more programs for our residents away from the campus. In spite of the changes to the way we have been able to have our annual fundraisers due to the restrictions of Covid-19, we have been blessed to be able to move forward with confidence because of the proven and continuous support from our many friends and our exceptional families.
These times have been challenging for everyone, yet still through it all our families and friends have stayed true to our mission. Most continue to give everything they can for our children and adults! I remain in awe and am humbled by your unwavering support.
Thank you for staying true to Misericordia’s mission to provide lives of dignity, meaning and challenge for our children and adults during this most unprecedented time. We must continue to live with hope and proceed with confidence in our future.
May God bless you and keep you healthy and safe.
Lovingly,
Sister Rosemary