How did we hear His voice and answer His call? Listen to some of our Sisters vocation stories. Perhaps you will hear a story that speaks to you.
At the age of 13, I made a decision that would forever impact my life: I became a volunteer at St. Joseph’s Manor, the home for the elderly in my hometown of Trumbull, Connecticut. As a Carmelite volunteer for the next six years, I developed a portion of each Saturday to caring for the home’s residents. Serving meals, bathing the infirm, working in the Fireside Lounge and performing other duties, I found my true calling. I wanted to devote my life to assisting others.
At the age of 13, I made a decision that would forever impact my life: I became a volunteer at St. Joseph’s Manor, the home for the elderly in my hometown of Trumbull, Connecticut.
As a Carmelite volunteer for the next six years, I developed a portion of each Saturday to caring for the home’s residents. Serving meals, bathing the infirm, working in the Fireside Lounge and performing other duties, I found my true calling. I wanted to devote my life to assisting others.
After entering the Carmelite Order in 1968, I was stationed at Carmelite facilities in Hyattsville, Maryland; South Boston; and Manchester, New Hampshire. While in New Hampshire, I obtained a B.A degree in sociology and social work from Rivier College. Later, I earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Connecticut.
I made my final vows in 1977. In May of 1982, I returned home to St. Joseph’s Manor as Director of Independent Living. I was Director of Social Services and Assistant Administrator, before being appointed Administrator in January of 1993. I stayed in St. Joseph’s Manor until 2006 and then went back to Marian Manor in South Boston for two years. In September 2008, I was elected to the Council and moved to Saint Teresa’s Motherhouse in Germantown, New York.
Why did I choose a life of caring for the elderly? All too often, older people are not appreciated and not taken care of properly. They are important to society and I want to do everything possible to make sure they are taken care of with all the dignity and respect they deserve.