“Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.” These beautiful words from this mornings’ responsorial psalm (27) struck me as deeply appropriate at this point in my life’s journey. I haven’t written here for several weeks as I have been completely absorbed in other responsibilities, foremost of which was accompanying and caring for Sr. Rebecca during the last weeks of her life. She had been administrator here for many years, and I have worked closely with her for quite some time, having moved here to St. Anne’s over thirteen years ago. We are definitely in a time of transition and of uncertainty, as we wait to see how things fall into place regarding the work duties that Sr. Rebecca undertook until shortly before her death from cancer last Tuesday. I am excited for our new administrator to begin work this coming week, as I know her to be a beautiful woman of faith and prayer, as well as a person with business credentials. There is still much unknown, however. Sr. Rebecca did so much more than simply serve as administrator of our Basic Care facility. She was an impeccable decorator, taking items donated from here and there (often from adult children cleaning out a parent’s home), and creating attractive spaces in our building to match each season. She also managed our HUD project since its inception in 1981. There are many gaps to fill, and time will tell how it all falls into place. This morning, I woke up a bit anxious, with so much on my mind. I don’t know if I’d been dreaming or what the cause of this unease was. I headed straight to our chapel, however, and spent some time in quiet prayer. After a half hour of meditation on today’s Mass readings, my heart was calmed and I was encouraged. The closing words of the responsorial psalm, which I will be singing in less than two hours, especially spoke to me: “Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.” I will continue lifting my concerns to Our Lord, who is so present to me, surrendering my heart and my life to His care. In the meantime, I also pray to St. Anne (our patroness) and St. Joseph (patron saint of workers) for their intercession. Please join me in this prayer!
2 Comments
Cathy Adams
1/22/2023 09:27:24 pm
I have been praying for all of you and for the future of St. Ann’s as you move forward without Sister Rebecca at the helm! May God bless all of you and give you His Comfort and Peace at this difficult time of loss and transition!!
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Jeri C Graham
1/26/2023 08:39:26 pm
I am very sorry for your loss. May the perpetual light shine upon Sister Rebecca.
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