My Vocation Story

As soon as 84-year-old Lillian opened the front door of her row house and saw her visitor, she clapped her hands in delight. I am Sr. Beatrice, the minister to the elderly at St. Benedicts. As I stepped in the door the widow gave me a hug of joy. Lillian cannot speak because of the cancer which took her gums and tongue, but she communicates through hand gestures and facial expressions. The bashful senior gave me the one lone chair in the room and sat on a stool as I presented her with a small bag filled with a paper Nativity set and some little gifts.

This ministry helps not only the shut-ins, but it also helps me, a 90 year old Daughter of Charity who has spent most of her 70 years with the Daughters as a teacher in Virginia, Washington, D.C., New York and Seton High in Baltimore, Maryland. When Seton High merged with Archbishop Keough High School, I retired from teaching and became pastoral associate at St. Benedicts. I almost wish I had my lift to live over because it is such a blessing and privilege to go out among the people and bring a bit of peace and joy.

Despite the gratification of this ministry, it can also be emotionally draining. After visiting, I have this urge to go into the church to sit and let this all settle in on me. The demanding nature of the work will not stop me though. I know the Bible says that I will get my reward in Heaven, but I also believe I am getting it here now.