FOREWORD

INTRODUCTION

AFIREBURNINGINUSCHISt.Luke’sHealthMemorial,Lufkin,Texas

THEROADLESSTRAVELEDCHISt.VincentMorrilton,Morrilton,Arkansas

CANYOUHEARMEINTHENOISE?CHISt.JosephHealth,Bryan,Texas

THESECONDINCARNATIONCHIMercyHealth,Roseburg,Oregon

THEBLESSINGOFSCHUYLORCHISt.JosephHealth,Bryan,Texas

GIVINGUPORGIVINGHOPEKentuckyOneHealth,Louisville,Kentucky

BEVERLYCHILivingCommunities,Toledo,Ohio

ALITTLEBOYANDJESUSCHIHealthGoodSamaritan,Kearney,Nebraska

APLACEOFCOMFORTCHIMercyMedicalCenter,Williston,NorthDakota

THEPOWEROFDANCESt.ClareCommons,Perrysburg,Ohio

HOLYCROSSCHAPEL:ABEACONOFHOPECHISt.Luke’sTheWoodlandsHospital,TheWoodlands,Texas

WEMAKEADIFFERENCECHISt.Vincent,LittleRock,Arkansas

ASACREDCONVERSATIONSt.ClareCommons,Perrysburg,Ohio

MYBEAUTIFULSTORYCHISt.VincentHotSprings,HotSprings,Arkansas

ALITTLESPARKLEGOESALONGWAYCHISt.FrancisHealth,Breckenridge,Minnesota

CINDYFROMTHESIDEWALKCHISt.Vincent,LittleRock,Arkansas

HOWANDWHYWEDOWHATWEDOCatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOffice,Englewood,Colorado

WHATISGOD’SPLANFORME?St.Leonard,Centerville,Ohio

BRINGYOURSPIRITUALITYTOWORKCatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOffice,Englewood,Colorado

THEARTOFLISTENINGCHISt.AlexiusHealth,Bismarck,NorthDakota

ENJOYLIFETOTHEFULLESTJewishHospital,KentuckyOneHealthLouisville,Kentucky

YOUTHVIOLENCEPREVENTIONCatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOffice,Englewood,Colorado

BREADFROMHEAVENCHIHealthSt.Elizabeth,Lincoln,Nebraska

THERENOVATIONCHIFranciscanHealth,Tacoma,Washington

INEEDTOTOUCHMORELEPERSCHIHealthMercyCouncilBluffs,CouncilBluffs,Iowa

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

ThestoryofCatholicHealthInitiativesofficiallybeganin1996,when10congregationsofwomenreligiouscreatedoneofthenation’slargestnonprofithealthcaresystems.Aswecelebratethe20thanniversaryofCHI,werememberthatourministryofhealthisdeeplyrooted.Forcenturies,faithfulservantshavepracticedtheloveofChristbycaringforthoseinneed.Wecontinue,nurtureandenhancethatlegacyaswecreatethenextexpressionsoftheministryinthisneweraofhealthcare.

Whilewereachfornewheightsofcaring,compassionandhealthinourcommunities,wetaketimetorecordandpreservethemomentsinwhichGodismostpresentandpowerfulinourwork.That’swhatSacred Storiesisallabout.Withgratitudetotheauthors,thesisters,allwhoarepartofCHIandallthoseweserve,wearethrilledtopresentthis17theditionofSacred Stories.

FOREWORD

Inthe20thyearofCHI,wecontinuetheheritageandlegacyofthesisterswhoformedthisorganization.Oneofthemanythingswelearnedfromthemistocontinuallyreadandrespondtothesignsofthetimes.Today,weseeandrespondtotheneedforcaretobedeliveredinnewways,newlocationsandnewsettings;and,thedemandforcarethatwillmosteffectivelyincreasethehealthofindividualsandcommunities.

Inourview,wehaveanunprecedentedinvitationtobringourgiftsandtalentstonewplaces;tomeetpeoplewheretheyareandpartnerwiththemtoimprovehealth.Asweacceptthisinvitation,wehavenewopportunitiestomakethepowerandpresenceofGodrealtothoseweserve,servewithandourselves,bothinsideandoutsideourhospitals.

Wearefortunatethatourworkhasthepowertochangethelivesofthepeopleweserveandimprovethewell-beingofcommunities.Italsohasthepowertochangeus.Asweenterintothelivesofotherstocreatepathwaystohealingandhealth,eachofushastheopportunitytofeelourindividualspiritualityawakenandblossom.

InthiseditionofSacred Stories,membersofourCHIfamilysharetheirexperienceofthosepowerfulmomentsofspirituality,understandingandchange.Wehopeyouenjoythesestoriesandareinspiredtowriteyourown.

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KevinE.Lofton,FACHEChiefExecutiveOfficer

ThomasR.Kopfensteiner,STDExecutiveVicePresident,Mission

INTRODUCTION

We are fortunate that our work has the power to change the lives of the people we serve and improve the well-being of communities.

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Suggested Sacred TextWith that their eyes were opened and they recognized him, but he vanished from their sight. — Luke 24:31

Sacred StoryAneighborandregularvisitor,lovinglynicknamed“Ms.Piggy,”stoppedbyourhospitalinSanAugustine,Texas,thedayafterLaborDay.Shewaslateforthetripleblessingceremonyforthenewparkinglot,thenewkitchenfloorandallwholaborinthisruralEastTexasfieldofhealing.

Althoughshewaslate,Ms.Piggybroughtthebestblessingofall.Sheanointeduswithherbeautifulvoice,singingsongaftersong.Asweallenjoyedicecream,onewomansaid,“It’stoobadyouweren’theretosing‘AmazingGrace’withus,yousingsowell.”

“Oh,Ilovetosing,”saidMs.Piggy.“Whichwaywouldyoulikemetosing‘AmazingGrace’?Icansingitthreedifferentways.”Shesangaverseortwoofthehymninthreestyles:southernharmony,bluesandgospel.Therewerecommentsof“Yes,amen!”andsmilesallaround.

“Howaboutthesongyousangattherevivallastweek?”anotherwomanasked.

“Youmean‘RichWoman,PoorWoman’?”askedMs.Piggy.Shesangagospelsongaboutawomanwhosefatherhadgivenherfineclothing,amansionandayacht;andanotherwoman,dressedinrags,whosefatherhadgivenherthesky,thebeautifulearthandaneternalpalace.Then,Ms.Piggysang“YouMustbeBornAgain”;andherfavorite,“PreciousLord,TakemyHand.”

AsmycoworkersandIwalkedfromtheparkinglotbacktothehospital,wemeditatedonthedisciples’walktoEmmaus.WelistenedtothevoiceofJesus

askingus,“Whatareyoutalkingaboutasyouwalkalong?Whatthings?”Inthecafeteria,wesharedbreadtorecognizethepresenceofJesusinourlives,ourserviceandoursongs.

JesusdrewnearthatafternoonthroughMs.Piggy’ssinging.IntheReverenceofhersinging,theIntegrityofeachnote,herCompassionatedelivery,andtheExcellenceofthewholeexperience,wedeepenedourimmersionintheCoreValuesthatwehadallpledgedtohonorasahealingteam.Sincethen,thefireofGod’slovehasburnedstrongerinus.

JAYGILCHRIST

CHISt.Luke’sHealthMemorial

Lufkin,Texas

Question for ReflectionIn whose presence were you that, as the moment passed, you realized that you had just encountered the Risen Christ?

“Since then, the fire of God’s love has burned stronger

in us.”

A FIRE BURNING IN USA Fire Burning In Us

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Suggested Sacred TextFor truly, I say to you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will by no means lose his reward. — Mark 9:41

Sacred StoryMr.EwasadmittedtoSt.VincentMorriltonafterbeingfoundunresponsivealongtheroadsidebystatepolice.Mr.Ewasdazed,confusedanddownrightexhausted.Thisdeterminedmanhadwalkedmorethan189milesenroutetoTulsa,Oklahoma.Hehadliterallywalkedthesolesoffofhisshoes.

Mr.Ewasgaunt,disheveledandinneedofahotbath,clothing,foodandrest.Wegavehimthesethings,buttheywerenothingcomparedtowhatwereceivedfromhisvisit.

Asthehospitalistonduty,IneededtomakesureMr.Ewasmedicallystableandthathisneedsweretakencareof.Histestsshowednosignsofinfectionordehydration.Otherthancallousedandblisteredfeet,hewasmedicallystable.Hebathedforthefirsttimeinweeks,wedressedhiswoundsandprovidedplentyoffoodandfreshcoffeetodrink.

IknewthatIwouldbefacedwithdischargingMr.Ethenextday.Itwasachallenge:wouldIdischargehimtothestreetsohecouldcontinuehiswalktoTulsa,orcouldIaskthestafftohelphimaboveandbeyondwhatourjobdescriptionscallfor,moreasabrotherinneed?

Ifoundthat,withinhoursandwithoutanyprompting,thestaffhadpurchasednewclothesandfoundaslightlyusedjacketforMr.E.YoucouldfeelthepresenceoftheHolySpiritasstaffmembersaskedwhatelsetheycoulddoforMr.E.

Thenextday,Mr.Esaidhisfeetwerealittlesorebuthe’dmakeittoTulsa.Weknewthatwewerebeing

blessedwithanopportunitytoreallyhelphim,sowecalledthebusstationtoreserveaticketforTulsa.Donationscameinfromstaffallaroundthehospital.ThegenerosityandwillingnesstoserveweresooverwhelmingtomethatIcan’tevenimaginehowMr.Efelt.WegaveMr.Ehisbusticket,bandagesforhisfeet,brownbagmealsandbottledwaterforhistrip.

Incomingtogetherandrespondinggenerouslytosomeoneinneed,welearnedmoreabouteachotherandaboutthegiftofworkinginthisministry.Mr.Ewasblessedtobesure,butwereceivedagreaterblessing:itistrulybettertogivethantoreceive.

LAURABEAN-CLARK,APRN

CHISt.VincentMorrilton

Morrilton,Arkansas

Questions for ReflectionWhere do you find “blessings” in your daily work?

Who has given you “a cup of water to drink?”

“ The generosity and willingness to serve were so overwhelming

to me ...”

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELEDThe Road Less Traveled

Suggested Sacred TextI am with you always, to the very end of the age. — Matthew 28:20

Sacred StoryThebuildingweworkedinthatdaywascrowdedandnoisy.WewereateamofmedicalmissionariesfromthedioceseofAustin,Texas,workinginasmallvillageinHondurascalledNuevaPalestina.Weweredoctors,dentists,nurses,translatorsandhelpersbusyatourtasks.Asusual,therewasacrowdgathered,clamoringtogetintoseeus.Wehadagatekeeperinchargeoflettinginjustenoughpeopleforustoserveatonetime,buttheenvironmentwaschaotic,withexcitement,anxiety,fearfulness,pain,desperation,relief,joyandlaughterallaudibleatthesametime.

Istruggledwithwhyithadtobethatway:whycouldn’titbequietandcalm?Onthatparticularday,Igotananswer,anditstunnedme.

Iwasbusyandhavingahardtimehearingmyownthoughts.Foronebriefmoment,Ijustsatandlistenedtothecacophonysurroundingme.That’swhenaquietlittlevoiceinsidemyheadsaid,“Canyouhearmeinthenoise?”

Suchassimplemessage,butitmademestopandtakenoticeofamuchbiggerreality.Thiswasmorethananoisycrowdseekingmedicalcareandagroupofmedicalproviderstryingtohelpout.IheardandwasawareofGod’sverypresence,audibleatthatmoment,existinginthenoiseitself.God’sspiritwasspeaking,tryingtobeknowntousinthevoicesofpeopleaskingforourearstolistentotheirneeds.Hewaspresent,notinspiteofthenoise,butactuallywithinit.

Ihadtoletthatsinkin.Asthedaywenton,fromtimetotimeIwouldlistentothelittlevoiceagain.

OurconversationswithGodareoftenone-way,withuspouringoutourneedsandconcerns.HowwonderfulitistooccasionallyhearGodsaysomethingdirectlytous,sometimesthroughscripture,liturgy,orthewondersofnature.OnthatblesseddayinNuevaPalestina,IrealizedmoreclearlythatGodiseverywhere.Inthedesperateeyesofthepoorwhocometoseeus,Godislookingrightatus.Inourownheartsandheads,Godwhispersencouragementandinstruction.Godiswherevertwoormoreofusconnectincare,concernandlove.

Backhomeinourclinicsandhospitals,itisactuallyharderformetoholdontothistruthinthedailyroutine.Ioftenfindmyselfstrugglingandfeelingputuponbythedemandsoftheday.Whyisthat?IfItakeamomenttorecallthatwonderfuldayinHonduras,Icanbarelyperceiveasimilarmessage:“I’mstillhere,eveninthisnoise.”Then,IcanonceagaingraspthecalltobeGod’shands,earsandvoiceforthenextpersonIencounter.

STEPHENBRADEN,MD

CHISt.JosephHealth

Bryan,Texas

Questions for ReflectionWhen you find yourself struggling and being put upon by the demands of the day, how do you quiet the noise to be attentive to the quiet little voice inside your head?

How have you recently been God’s hands, ears and voice for someone?

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CAN YOU HEAR ME IN THE NOISE?Can You Hear Me In The Noise?

Suggested Sacred TextGod wanted everyone to know this rich and glorious secret inside and out…the mystery in a nutshell is this: Christ is in you, so therefore you can look forward to sharing in God’s glory. — Colossians 1:27

Sacred StoryOnThursday,October1,2015,asenselessactofviolenceforceditswayintooursmall,quietcommunity.AbarrageofgunshotsbrokethepeaceinSnyderHallatUmpquaCommunityCollege,tragicallyclaimingthelivesofninepeople:eightaspiringstudentsandonerespectedinstructor.Theentirecommunitywasutterlyshockedanddevastated.

TheCHIMercyHealthcommunityexperiencedaprofoundsenseofagonyandheartbreakasweprayerfullyreadiedourselvestoreceivetheinjured.Tenvictimsarrivedforemergencymedicaltreatment.Theyweremetwithclinicalproficiencyandtraumaservicecoordinationthatcanonlybedescribedasmiraculous.AsIrecountthestoryandcontemplatehowwellthingsactuallyunfolded,itoccurstomethataforcemuchbiggerthanourpersonalstrengthordexterityasateammusthavebeenatplay.

Theorderandbeautythatflowedoutofthechaosandhorrorwasbreathtakingandbeyondnaturalexplanation.Ourstaffmemberscouldeasilyhavebeenparalyzedbyfearthatthenextgurneytocomeinwouldholdalovedone.Instead,theyshowedsuchfortitudeandprofessionalismthatI’mconvincedIwitnessedasecondincarnation.Godgenerouslyenteredintothefleshofmycoworkersandmanifestedthroughcountlessactsofheroism,explicitdisplaysofcompassion,andbottomlessoutpouringsofloveandmercy.MycolleaguesweretheembodimentofChrist!

Godhelpedourstaffpressthroughthedarknessandprovidebrilliantlygoodmedicalcaretothevictims,

theirfamilies,andthemembersofourgrievingcommunity.ItwasmovingtoseehowoursufferingemployeessharedGod’slove.Theylavishedeachotherwithasmuchencouragementandcomfortastimeandtheworktobedoneallowed.Itwasdeeplyhumblingandpositivelyinspiringtowitnessandbeapartof.

Demonstrationsofcharityandlovecontinuetofillourcommunitywithhopeandmoveusfurtheralongtheroadtorecovery.AsIwrite,Iamgentlyremindedthatinthewakeofthistragedy,aspiritofsolidarityandgenerosityhasseizedtheheartofCHIMercyHealthandmobilizedustobethehandsandfeetofChrist.Thewarmthandlovewecontinuetoshowthevictims,theirfamiliesandeachotherisbothpalpableandGod-like.

DAVIDPRICE

CHIMercyHealth

Roseburg,Oregon

Questions for ReflectionRecall a moment in your ministry when you pressed through the darkness to serve God’s people. Where did your strength come from?

“... God helped our staff press through

the darkness.”

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THE SECOND INCARNATIONThe Second Incarnation

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Suggested Sacred TextAmen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me. — Matthew 18:3-5

Sacred StoryOnceinawhile,Godblessesyoubyplacingsomeoneinyourlifewhobringsoutthebestinyou.InApril2015,wehiredSchuylortoworkinoursterileprocessingdepartment.Heispartofaprogramthroughwhichourorganizationemploysadultswhohavedisabilities,helpingthemjointhemainstreamthroughemployment.

Thedecisiontohirewasmade,inpart,withaneyetowardourmissionandvalues.WethoughtthatwewouldbehelpingSchuylor.Wehadnoideathathewasgoingtoflipthetablesonus.

Schuylorperformshisassigneddutieswithminimalassistanceorsupervision,andhisworkhasbeenagreathelptotherestoftheemployeesinsterileprocessing.And,heisadelight!Heisquicktocatchon,andisgreatatanythingtodowithnumbers.Thejobthathedoesprovideswelcomerelieftohiscoworkers,butthebenefithebringusextendssomuchfartherthanthat.

Schuylorhadabirthdayafewweeksagoandwehadalittleparty.Wehadacard,cupcakes,andgaveSchuyloralittlestuffedchimpanzeethatheloved.Hewassoexcitedthathecalledhismomonspeakerphoneandintroducedeveryoneintheroomtoher.

Almosteveryday,someoneapproachesmetotellmetheir“SchuylorStory.”Heisahugger,andweallbenefitfromhishugs.Schuylorhasawayofbringingoutasideofpeoplethattheymaynothaveevenknown

theyhad.Insomanyways,heremindsthoseofusfortunateenoughtointeractwithhimofthethingsthatreallymatterinlife:enthusiasm,appreciationofothers,andfindingjoyineverydayoccurrencesandevents.Wearebetterpeoplebecauseofhim.

Somepeoplemightthink,asweoncedid,thatwearehelpingSchuylorout.Ifyouaskus,wearegettingthebetterendofthedeal.

DEESTOKES

CHISt.JosephHealth

Bryan,Texas

Question for ReflectionWho has God placed in your life that reminds of you the beautiful innocence in which Jesus tells us we will receive him?

Have you embraced this childlike innocence?

THE BLESSING OF SCHUYLORThe Blessing of Schuylor

“Once in a while, God blesses you

by placing someone in your life who

brings out the best in you.”

Suggested Sacred TextYes, people of Zion, you will live in Jerusalem and weep no more. He will be gracious to you when he hears your cry; when he hears he will answer. When the Lord has given you the bread of suffering and the water of distress, he who is your teacher will hide no longer, and you will see your teacher with your own eyes. Whether you turn to the right or left, your ears will hear these words behind you, “This is the way, follow it.” — Isaiah 30:19-21

Sacred StoryWhenyouwalkintoaclient’shomeforthefirsttimeandseeahouseindisarray,finddogsfightinginthelivingroom,andheartheclientcursing,it’shardnottobetakenaback.Infact,duringourfirstvisittoPaul’shome,wewerewellwithinourrightsascaregiverstowalkout,consideringhispoorattitudeandinappropriatelanguage.

But,wedon’tgiveupthateasily.Ourhome-basedministryisdesignedtohelpclientslikePaul.It’sourmissiontoreachouttothemostvulnerable.Weservepeoplewhonotonlyhaveserioushealthconditions,butotherchallengesaswell.

Paulwasroughandtoughontheoutside.Hisdemeanorandfrequentcursingseemedtoconfirmhisagitationatourpresence.Itwouldhavebeeneasytoformajudgement,butthenwelearnedwhyPaulwasthewayhewas.

Yearsearlier,Paulhadbeencarjackedandassaulted.Hesufferedpost-traumaticstressdisorderanddepression.Hewasscaredoftheoutsideworldandhissocialisolationfueledhisloneliness.Hisdogsandhisgruffdemeanorweredefensestokeeppeopleoutofhislife.Hewastestingustoseeifwewouldbescaredoff.But,wekeptcomingbackeachweek.

AbreakthroughmomentoccurredduringoneofourvisitstoPaul.Insteadofbeingagitatedandclearlyreadyforustoleave,heaskedifwe’dliketosharesomefoodwithhim.Overtime,hebegantocallustoconfirmthatwewerecomingtohishouse.Mostimportantly,hebegantotakestepstowardimprovinghisownhealth.

Threemonthslater,hebegantodriveagainandgotothegrocerystoreandpharmacybyhimself.Heattendedahealthseminaronhisownandsawacounselor.Helost36pounds.Insteadoffrequentingtheemergencydepartmentasheoncedid,hebeganmakinghisowndoctorappointments.

Themessagewasclear:Paulbegantotakecareofhimselfoncehewassurethatwecaredabouthim.

Ascaregivers,ourgreatestjoyistoseeourclientsthrive.Therearetimesthatitseemsimpossible,butPaul’sexampleremindsusnottogiveup.Bycaringforthosewhoaremostvulnerable,wemightunlocktheirownhopeanddesiretocareforthemselves.

HEALTHCONNECTIONSINITIATIVECARETEAM

GingerFlorence,BethanyMay,AshleyDawsonandHarryYoung

KentuckyOneHealth

Louisville,Kentucky

Questions for ReflectionWhen has persistent effort with a difficult person led to a breakthrough? What helped you stay engaged in the effort?

What part does hope play in helping you push through a difficult situation?

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GIVING UP OR GIVING HOPEGiving Up or Giving Hope

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Suggested Sacred TextAs each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace. — Peter 4:10

Sacred StoryIhadknownBeverlysinceheradmissiontoourJosephBernardinResidence.WhenIvisitedorheldmeetingsthere,shewasalwaysoutspokenandneverafraidtotellitlikeitwas.Shewasastrong-willedanddeterminedwomanwholikedtoremindmeof“howthesisterswouldhavedoneit”(shehadworkedwiththeFranciscanSistersofthePoorformanyyears).Assheremindedmeofhowtodomyjobbetter,webecameclosefriends.

Whenherhealthbegantofail,sheenteredouron-campusHealthandRehabilitationCenter.Istoppedbytotalkwithheroften.Ourconversationstookonanewtoneasherfocusturnedtoherlifejourneyandherfamily,farawayfromher.Shesharedmanystoriesaboutherupbringing,herparents,herhusbandandherchildren.Theseconversationsoftenendedintearsasshecametorealizethatshewasnotasstrongassheusedtobeandneededtorelymoreonotherstocareforher.

Shewasstilladeterminedwoman,andIfoundheronedaywatchingahistorycourseonaneducationalcablechannel.Shetoldmeshewantedtocontinuehereducationtokeephermindinorder.Shesaidthatheronlyregretinlifewasnotcompletingherowncollegedegreeduetothetimeshespentraisingherchildren,allofwhomearnedcollegedegrees.

Iimmediatelystartedthinkingabouthowtomakethishappenforher.Encouragingourresidentstoreachtheirdreams,evenduringretirement,ispartofourvalues.Actuallyhelpingthemachievetheirdreams,asIfoundout,isasurrealexperience.

IcontactedWrightStateUniversity.TheywereexcitedabouttheopportunitytomakeBeverly’sdreamcometrue.InlateDecember2014,withherfamilyandmanyofourstaffpresent,Beverly,attheageof84,receivedanhonorarybachelorofhumanitiesdegreepresentedbytheexecutivevicepresidentandsecretarytotheBoardofTrusteesofWrightStateUniversity.Theuniversitypresidentwasalsoinattendance,wearinghisdoctoralrobes.Tearsflowedfromalldirections.

Ithoughtabouthowmanyoftheseopportunitiescomeourwayinhealthcare,andhowblessedwearetobepresentforthem.ItreallyisanincrediblegifttobeagifttoanotherbythegraceofGod.Thatistheprivilegeofservinginaministrylikeours.

Beverlypassedawayafewmonthslater.IthankherforbeingoneofthebestprofessorsIeverhad.

TIMOTHYDRESSMAN

CHILivingCommunities

Toledo,Ohio

Questions for ReflectionIs there someone in your workplace, family or community who could benefit from a special gift? How can you make this gift a reality?

There are times when the greatest gift we can give is being present to patients, clients, residents and each other. In the busy pace of health care, how can you pause and be wholly present to someone in need?

BEVERLYBeverly

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Suggested Sacred TextJesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” — Matthew 19:14

Sacred StoryInthehealinggardenatourCancerCenterthereisastatueofJesus.Heisseated,sopatientsandfamilymembersareabletositbesidehiminprayerorcontemplation.

OnedayasIwaslookingoutthebreakroomwindowintothehealinggarden,Isawalittleboyaboutthreeyearsold.HewasonthebenchnexttoJesus,gentlystrokingJesus’armsandfaceasifindeepconversation.Hestayedthere,gazingintothefaceofJesusasifinaplea.

Therewasawomanstandingcloseby,andamaninthedistance.Theywerethelittleboy’sparents,andIrealizedthatIknewtheirstory:thelittleboy’sdaddyhadanuntreatablebraintumor,andwasgoingtodie.

Myheartwentouttoallofthem.IknewwhythelittleboyneededtotouchandtalktoJesus,andittouchedmysoulthatwehadasacredplaceforhimtodojustthat.

RITAKAUL

CHIHealthGoodSamaritan

Kearney,Nebraska

Questions for ReflectionWhat situations have recently touched your soul, and why?

Where is your sacred place for prayer or contemplation, and how often do you rest there?

A LITTLE BOY AND JESUSA Little Boy and Jesus

“ I knew why the little boy needed to touch and

talk to Jesus, and it touched my soul

that we had a sacred place for him to do

just that.”

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Suggested Sacred TextThe righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; the Lord delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. — Psalm 34:17-18

Sacred StoryWhat’sitliketobefarfromhome,hurtingandlonely?FormanypeopleinWilliston,NorthDakota,thisistheirdailyexperience.

TheBakkenOilFieldscalltopeoplefromallovertheworld.Somecomeatthebiddingoftheiremployers,butmanycomefromhardplaceswithhighunemploymenttofindwork;forthepromiseofhighwagesthatwillhelpthemoutfromundergreatdebt;ortotrytomaketheirfortune.Manycomealone,andmanyoftheirstoriesaredesperate.

Oneday,oneofourvolunteersbroughtadistraughtwomantotheQuality/CaseManagementOffice.Thewomanwantedtoregisteraconcernaboutthecareshereceivedinanancillarydepartment.But,withinafewminutes,shetoldmethatshehadrecentlymiscarriedandfeltsad,isolatedandlonely.ShehadmovedtoWillistonjustbeforehermiscarriage,andbeingfarfromfriendsandfamilywasastruggleforher.Inshort,therewasnoonecloseathandwithwhomshecouldtalk,cryorconfide.Herinitialcomplaintwasforgottenintherushofpainfulemotion.

Asalifelongobstetricalnurse,nowworkinginquality,Iknewthepainthewomanwasfeeling.Irantogetheroneofthecomfortkitswegivetomotherswhomiscarry.Thekitprovidesthingsforamothertoholdonto,includingababyblanketandastuffedanimal.Therearepamphletsongrieving;whenwecan,weincludethebaby’sfootprintsandpicture,too.

Ialsofoundourchaplain,whoimmediatelycametohelp.Wehuggedourpatient,cryingandprayingwithher,surroundingherwithGod’slove.

Perhapsthiswasadivineappointment;but,IhaveseenthingslikethishappensomanytimesaspeoplemoveheretoWillisonwithouttheirfamiliarnetworksoffamilyandfriends.Theycomeintoabustlingboomtown,buttheyoftenfeelsoalone.

Thisencounterremindedmeofthehostofneedsthatsurroundus.Wearehere,andwehavepreparedtocareforourcommunity,whoevermaycomeintoit.Wecontinuetobemindfulofouropportunitytohelppeoplebyprovidingaplaceofcomfort.Thisiswhatcaringforthewholepersonisabout:givingassurance,encouragement,hopeandspiritualsupport.

DENISEHAUGEN,RN

CHIMercyMedicalCenter

Williston,NorthDakota

Questions for ReflectionHow might you provide “a place of comfort” for someone who may need it today?

Regardless of your role, how can you care for the whole person in those you serve today?

A PLACE OF COMFORTA Place of Comfort

“ This is what caring for the whole person is about...”

Suggested Sacred TextYou changed my mourning into dancing, you took off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness. — Psalm 30:11

Sacred StoryAtSt.ClareCommons,wefrequentlyhavemusicalentertainmentforourresidents.Itvariesingenre,andmightinvolveaccordion,banjo,piano,guitar,acapellasinging,etc.Whentheperformanceincludesdancetunes,Iamremindedthatmanyofourresidentslovedancing.Asadancermyself,Ienjoydancingwithourresidents(alwayskeepingsafetyinmind,ofcourse).

Duringoneperformance,IhadjustfinisheddancingwithawomanwholivesinourmemorycareunitwhenIlookedoveratAnita,whohasmobilityrestrictionsandusesawheelchair.Anitahadloveddancingasayoungwoman,andIknewshestilldid.Isawadisappointedlookonherfaceasherson,whowasvisiting,toldherthatitmightnotbeagoodideaforhertodance.

Anideapoppedintomyheadthatwouldmaintainsafetywhileprovidinganopportunityforhappiness.IwhisperedtoAnita’sson,“WouldyoumindifIaskedyourmomforawheelchairdance?”Helookedatmequizzically,butsaid“Ithinkthatwouldbegreat.”IaskedAnitaifshewouldliketodance:she,too,gavemeaquizzicallook,butsaidyes.IinstructedAnitatomoveherfeetleftandrightrhythmically,tothebeat.Aftersettingthebeat,wejoinedinaballroomframe,withmecrouchingslightlysothatAnitacouldremainseated.Imovedherwheelswhicheverwayherfeettookher.Wedancedthesongtogether,andattheendshewasbeamingandgavemeakissonthecheek.

Later,Anitatoldhersonhowmuchthedancemeanttoher.Whattheydidn’tknowwashowmuchthedance

meanttome–neverbeforehadIwitnessedthepowerthatdancecanhaveasahealingministry.

Sincethatday,I’vedancedwithmoreresidentswhoareinwheelchairs.Forme,itillustrateshowourgiftsandtalents–nomatterhowgoodorbadwethinkweareatusingthem–canimpactaperson’slife.OurgiftsandtalentsmightbeinstallingahearingdeviceforaTV,preparingaspecialdishforaresident,orsavingadanceforsomeonewhothoughttheywouldneverdanceagain.

CHELSEAOSWALD

St.ClareCommons

Perrysburg,Ohio

Questions for ReflectionWhy is creative thinking so important in this story and in our ministry?

What are other implications of this story for our ministry?

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THE POWER OF DANCEThe Power of Dance

“ Since that day, I’ve danced with

more residents who are in

wheelchairs.”

Suggested Sacred TextOne thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. — Psalm 27:4-5

Sacred StoryAtCHISt.Luke’sHealthLakesideHospitalthereisHolyCrossChapel,whichhasbecomeabeaconofhopeforpatientsandfamilies.Thechapelissituatednearwherepatientsandfamiliesregisterandwaitforsurgery.Theambianceofthechapelreflectscalmpresenceandreflection,meditationandprayer.Thehospitalchaplainvisitsthechapelonceaweektopraywiththepatientswhoarethere.

OneThursdayafternoonwhilethechaplainmadehisvisit,hemetMr.Johns,apatientinhis60swhowaswaitingforhisthirdheartstentprocedure.Hetoldthechaplainthathewasworriedbecausehesawareflectionofhislifebeforehim.Hehadcometothechapel,writtenaprayerrequest,thenknelttopray.HesaidhehadnotbeenclosetoGodinalongtime:hehadgrownupintheBaptistchurch,buthaddriftedaway.Atthatmoment,hewonderedifGodwouldaccepthimwerehetodie.

ThechaplaintoldMr.Johnsthathewasbeingprayedfor.Intears,Mr.JohnssaidhehadfeltGodcoveringhimwhenheenteredthechapel.HewasremindedofanexperienceduringhisdaysintheVietnamWar,whenmenaroundhimweredying.Onemorningwhenhistroopwasabouttogotothebattlefront,hiscommandertookhimasideandassignedhimtohelpthechaplain.Forthenextfewmonths,Mr.Johnsworkedinthechapel.Hesawhiscolleaguesbrought

in,woundedordead.GodhadkepthimsafeinthechapelinVietnam.Now,intheHolyCrossChapel,hewasremindedofGod’sprotectionandprovidence.

IsittruethatGodhidespeopleinaprotectedpavilionduringtimesoftrouble?Mr.Johnswaslikethepsalmist:hefoundsanctuary,comfort,courageandpeaceinthechapel.HethankedGodandrecommittedhimselfasheprayedwiththechaplain.Mr.Johns,withhisthirdstent,desirestobeclosertoGodfromnowon.Whatajoy!

PAULPAYWAY

CHISt.Luke’sTheWoodlandsHospital

TheWoodlands,Texas

Question for ReflectionAs you reflect on your life or a specific situation that you find yourself in, do you see meaning and purpose?

“ Mr. Johns was like the psalmist: he found sanctuary,

comfort, courage and peace in the

chapel. ”

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HOLY CROSS CHAPEL: A BEACON OF HOPETHoly Cross Chapel: A Beacon of Hope

Suggested Sacred TextAnd we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. — Romans 8:28

Sacred StoryHaveyouevercaredforapatientwholeavesalastingmarkonyourheart?Earlyinmycareer,Ihadthehonorofbeingtherespiratorytherapistforapatientwhowasaquadriplegic,hadatracheostomyandwasventilatordependent.Boththepatientandhiswifewereextremelykind,acoupleI’llneverforget.

Icaredforthepatientforseveralweeksbeforehepassedaway.Ilosttouchwithhiswife,butoftenwonderedwhereandhowshewas.

Recently,IattendedaconventionwhereIwasapproachedbyarespiratorytherapystudent.Ididn’trecognizeheratfirst;then,shetoldmethatIhadcaredforherhusband.Itwasmypatient’swife!Shethankedmeforcaringforherhusbandthroughouthisillness,andsaidthatthecaremycolleaguesandIhadprovidedtoherhusbandhadinspiredhertobecomearespiratorytherapist!

Ihadneverbeforereceivedsuchanamazingcompliment.ThemomentmademerealizethatGodalwayshasapurpose;andthateachday,ourworkcanbesomuchmorethanjustourwork.Iamsogratefultobearespiratorytherapist,andtoworkwithcolleagueswhodisplaythecompassionofChristinallthatwedo.

KATIEOLIVER

CHISt.Vincent

LittleRock,Arkansas

Questions for ReflectionHave you ever received the gift of finding out that you touched or inspired someone?

Has someone touched or inspired you in a way similar to this story? If so, have you ever had the opportunity to tell him or her? Please say a silent prayer of gratitude for the person or persons who have touched and inspired you and, perhaps, if you are so inclined, tell them how they have touched or inspired you.

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WE MAKE A DIFFERENCEWe Make a Difference

“ God always has a purpose ... and each day, our work can be so much more than our work.”

Suggested Sacred TextMany are the sorrows of the wicked, but those who trust in the Lord, loving kindness shall surround them. — Psalm 32:10

Sacred StorySuewasaquiet,gentlewomanwhocametoliveinSt.ClareCommons’assistedlivingarea.Atage94,Suewasreadytoacceptthatsheneededhelpwitheverydaytasks.Shesmiledoften,andwhenshedid,herwholefacebrightened.

Aftersomemonths,Sueneededtogotothehospitalfortests.Aftermanytests,shereceivedthesurprisingdiagnosisofcancer.ShereturnedtoSt.ClareCommonstobewithherfriends.

IvisitedSuetowelcomeherhome.Asusual,shewaspeacefulandgracious.Aswetalked,Suementionedthathertestresultswerenotyetdefinite,andmoretestswouldfollow.Hernextvisittothedoctor’sofficebroughtadefinitediagnosisofovariancancer.

Suetoldme,“Iam94,I’vehadagoodlifeandI’mreadytogohome.”SheclarifiedthatshemeantshewasreadytogohometoGod.Shelistedallofthegiftsshehadreceived:alovingfamily,goodfriends,andalonglife.Aftersomereflection,weendedourtimetogetherwithaprayerthatformedalitanyofgratitude.

Whatpeaceexudedfromthiswoman!Mypersonalreflectionwas,whohadvisitedwho?Encounterslikethisaretrulyagiftoftheministryofpastoralcare.

SISTERJOYBARKER,OSF

St.ClareCommons

Perrysburg,Ohio

Questions for ReflectionWhen were you most recently made conscious of the gifts you’ve been given?

Can you name them and claim them as your own?

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A SACRED CONVERSATIONA Sacred Conversation

“ She listed all of the gifts she had received: a

loving family, good friends, and a long

life.”

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Suggested Sacred TextAnd Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. — Matthew 14:14

Sacred StoryItwasjustmyseconddayatCHISt.VincentHotSpringsasthenewactivitiesdirectorfortheGeri-PsychBehavioralHealthDepartment.Idecidedtovisiteachroomandmeetallthepatientsandtrytoseethroughtheireyesinmyefforttomaketheirdaysspecial.

OneofourpatientswasChuck,an86-year-oldmanwhocametousfromrehabafterhavinghadastroke.TherehabteamhadnotedsomeaggressivebehaviorfromChuck.WhenImethim,hehadn’teatenorsleptinthreedays.Heseemedlostanddisoriented.

Iaskedhimabouthisfamily:hementionedthenameLolli,andsaidshehadjustbeenwithhim,butnowhecouldn’tfindher.Iwasn’tsureifLolliwasanursewhohadhelpedhim,apet,afriendorafamilymember.

ThenextdayChuckstillhadnoteatenorslept,hisconditionwasdeteriorating,andhewasstilllookingforLolli.Ididalittleresearchandfoundouthiswife,Laura,wasintheICUatourhospital.Shewasincriticalconditionaftersufferingastroke.CouldshebetheLollithatChuckwaslookingfor?IaskedthenursesifwecouldtakehimtotheICUtoseehiswife,whowasinacoma.Thenurseswerewillingtohelpreunitethecouple,thoughtheycautionedthathiswifemightnotevenknowthathewasthere.

Icalledthecouple’sdaughter,Cindy,toaskherpermissiontotakeherfathertovisithermother.Shewasextremelygrateful.Shealsosaidthatshewasonherwaytothehospital.WhileIwaitedforCindytoarrive,IcleanedChuckupandcombedhishairsohewouldbereadyforhisdatewithhiswife.

OncewewereallonthewaytotheICU,ItoldChuckthatweweretakinghimtoseeLaura.Hesmiled,andatearrolleddownhischeek.Hisdaughterwasteary-eyedandexcited,too.

Laura’snursegreetedusandguidedusintotheroom.Laurawasnon-responsive,andwewheeledChucktothesideofherbed.Whenhesawher,heimmediatelyheldherhand.“Lolli!”hesaid.Wehelpedhimstandupsohecouldleanoverandgiveherakiss.

Laura’seyesopened.“Chuck,isthatyou?”shesaid.LaurastartedtopulloffherblanketsandpullherselfovertowardChuck.WehelpedChuckgetinthehospitalbedbesidehiswifeandshehuggedhim.Shesawherdaughterandsmiled,saying“Cindy,Cindy.”

Laura’snursewascrying,saying“Shecameoutofanon-responsivecomaatthesoundofherhusband’svoice!”Wewereliterallyonourkneeswithamazement.LauraaskedforwaterandateaPopsicleasifherstrokehadneverhappened.

Afterthis,bothLauraandChuckimproved.Theyweredischargedandarenowlivingwiththeirdaughter.

Godblessthiswonderfulhospitalandstaffforallowingmetobeaparticipantinthisbeautifulstory.ItwasareminderthatGodguidesusthrougheveryexperienceifwetakethetimetohearGod’svoicewhenwelistentopatients,likeChuck,whoreallyneedtobeheard.Itwasabeautifulreminderofwhywearehere.

REGENASTRABLE

CHISt.VincentHotSprings

HotSprings,Arkansas

Questions for ReflectionWhy is being present and listening so important in this story?

What healing could take place if all of us were truly present, listened and found compassionate ways to meet people’s needs?

MY BEAUTIFUL STORYMy Beautiful Story

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Suggested Sacred TextThe Lord their God will save his people on that day as a shepherd saves his flock. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown. — Zechariah 9:16

Sacred StoryAnelderlyladyenteredthroughthefrontdoorsofCHISt.FrancisHealthearlyonemorning.Inoticedherwalkingslowlyandunsteadilydespitehavingacane.Iaskedherifshewouldlikeawheelchair,andshehesitated,butdecidedtoacceptmyoffer.Oncesettledinthewheelchair,shetoldmeshewasscaredandnervousaboutherappointmentthatday,andIofferedalisteningear.

Shenoticedtheshinystonesonmyshoesandlikedthesparkleofthem.Shesaid,“Godmusthaveputthosesparklesonyourshoestobrightenmyday.Icantellthatthesparkleinyourheartisjustasbright.Andlookatyoursparklingsmile!”ItoldherthatImusthaveworntheshoesjustforher.Shesmiledandthankedmeforassistingandlisteningtoher.

Ihadnotbeenplanningtowearthoseshoestoworkthatday,butsomethingmademechoosethem.Workingheregivesmeauniqueopportunitytowitnessfaithinaction;we’reencouragedtobringourfaithtowork,whichenablesallofustoseeGod’sactionsinourwork.

Fromnowon,I’llremembertokeepasparkleinmysmileatwork,becausealittlesparklecangoalongway.

MARYKAPPES

CHISt.FrancisHealth

Breckenridge,Minnesota

Questions for ReflectionWhen was the last time you offered a listening ear? What was that experience like for you?

When was the last time you needed a listening ear and someone truly listened to you? What was that experience like for you?

A LITTLE SPARKLE GOES A LONG WAYA Little Sparkle Goes a Long Way

”Working here gives me a unique

opportunity to witness faith

in action; we’re encouraged to bring our faith to work, which enables all of us to see God’s actions in

our work. ”

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Suggested Sacred TextThe Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. — 1 Kings 19:11-13

Sacred StoryForseveralmonths,IprayedthatGodwouldaffirmthatIwasfollowingGod’spathformylife.IbelievethatGodanswersprayers.IamalsocertainthatthisishowIcametomeetCindyonthesidewalk.

Itwasanothernormaldayatwork.Ihadmetwithmysupervisor,mappedoutmytasksforthedayandheadedbacktomyoffice.IfirstnoticedCindybecauseofthelovelyscentofherperfumeasshewalkedpast.

Ididn’tknowwhy,butIfeltcompelledtofollowher.Iwenttothecafeteriaandboughtabottleofwater,thenfollowedCindyoutthefrontdoor.Shesatonabenchalongthesidewalk.

Ithought,“Thisiscrazy,shelooksfine.”Then,Iheardavoiceinthebackofmyheadsay“Go!”Iapproachedtheblond-hairedwomanandsaid,“Hi,I’mHollyandIwouldliketositdownandtalkwithyou.”Tomysurprise,shesaid“Okay.”Iaskedherifsheneededanything,andhandedherthebottleofwater.Shestartedtosob,tearsrollingdownhercheeks.

Shetoldmethatshehadnofamilyexceptforonecousin.Together,throughtheyears,sheandhercousinhadburiedtheothermembersoftheirfamily.

Cindy’scousinhadmarriedandhopedtoraiseafamily,onlytofindoutthatshecouldn’tconceive.Now,thecousin’shusbandhadsufferedaseverestroke.Hewasinourhospitalandwasnotexpectedtosurvive.

Cindysaid,“IwasjustexplainingtoGodthatIknowmycousinneedsmysupport,andIcanprovidethat.Then,IselfishlyaskedGod,whowouldsupportme?And,hedeliveredyou.”Now,Iwastheonewhowascrying.Cindythankedmeforbeingkindandheadedhometogetsomethingsthathercousinneeded.

Thisaffirmedthatmypathissimple.WhenGodcalls,Igo.

HOLLYTAYLOR

CHISt.Vincent

LittleRock,Arkansas

Questions for ReflectionWas there ever a time when you felt directed to talk with someone in need? Did you respond to that “gentle whisper”?

What are some ways that you experience communication from/with God?

The author states, “I believe that God answers prayers.” What do you think about this statement? Are there occasions when you felt that God did NOT answer your prayers?

There are so many people who are alone or nearly alone in the world. How do we become aware of them and welcome them into our lives?

CINDY FROM THE SIDEWALKCindy from the Sidewalk

20

Suggested Sacred TextWhy spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. — Isaiah 55:2

Sacred StoryIntheearlyyearsofmycareerinCatholichealthcare,IheardaremarkablestoryaboutayoungwomanwholeftacomfortablelifestylebecauseshefeltcalledbyGodtoservethepoor,marginalizedandvulnerableinthestreetsofCalcutta,India.Tome,whatwasmostastoundingaboutherstorywasthatsheproclaimedtoseeJesusintheeyesofeachpersonshemet.Ithoughttomyself,howcansheseeJesusineachperson’seyes;whatdidshemean?WhatdidsheknowthatIdidn’t?IhadnoideathatIwouldeventuallyreceivetheanswerstothesequestions.

MotherTeresawasanordinarywomanwhoaccomplishedextraordinarythingsfortheKingdomofGod.GuidedbytheSpirit,sheansweredhercall.Shewassentforthasaspirit-filledleadertoservetheleastoftheleastinthehealingministryofJesus.

Laterinmycareer,IjoinedtheNationalMissionGroupofCatholicHealthInitiatives.Ilearnedaboutourfoundresses,themeaningoftheircharismsandtheirlegacies.Imetmanygifted,spirit-filledleaders.Ialsocametobetterunderstandourmission,vision,andcorevalues.

Eventually,IfeltcalledbyGodtomissionleadership.Fouryearsago,IbeganmytheologicalstudiesatAquinasInstituteofTheologyinSt.Louis,Missouri.IlearnedhowCatholicidentity,Catholicsocialteachingandthetheologicalvirtuesarethefoundationforouractionsanddecision-making.

Iwasalsoreawakenedtothecreationstoryandthetwo

greatestcommandments:toloveGodandtoloveyourneighborasyourself.IrealizedthatthisishowandwhywedowhatwedoinCatholichealthcare.

IhavebeenforeverchangedandtransformedinthewayIlookateachpersonineveryrelationship,bothpersonallyandprofessionally.And,InowknowwhatMotherTeresameantwhenshesaidshesawJesusineachperson’seyes!Shewasreferringtotheirhumandignity,rootedintheircreationintheimageandlikenessofGod.Whatateacher!

Everyday,IamgratefulfortheguidanceofmanygiftedleadersandtheSpiritinmyworkatCHI.IseethoseofuswhoworkatCHI,tryingtodothesameasMotherTeresa:thatis,tobeGod’spresencetooneanotherandtothoseweserve,andtoseeJesusineachpersonwemeet.

ROBINBURROWS

CatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOffice

Englewood,Colorado

Questions for ReflectionIn what ways have you been blessed by great teachers?

In what ways have you been blessed by those you work with?

In what ways are you God’s presence to those you serve, and do you try to see Jesus in each person you meet?

HOW AND WHY WE DO WHAT WE DOHow and Why We Do What We Do

21

Suggested Sacred TextI know well the plans I have for you... plans to give you a future full of hope. — Jeremiah 29:11

Sacred StoryWhenIbeganmyjobatSt.Leonardnineyearsago,IembarkedonanadventureIhadn’tknownwaitedformeafewyearsearlier,whenmyownparentsresidedhereandIwastheirprimarycaregiver.HadIreturnedtoSt.Leonardforareason?TheanswerIfoundwas,“yes.”

In1999,myparentsmovedoutoftheirhomeof38yearsandintoacottageontheSt.Leonard’scampus.Iknewthattheirhealthproblemswouldeventuallyrequireevenmoreattention.Intime,bothofthemtransitionedtolong-termnursingcare.

Astheybecamefrailer,IfelthelplessbecauseIwasunabletohelpthemgetbacktothelifetheysodesperatelywantedtoreturnto.Duringtheirlastyear,thereweresomanycallsfromSt.Leonardaboutmyparents’needsthatitbecamehardformetoevenanswerthephone.Ihidmyprivatedespairandcontinuedtobeadaughterandtotakecareofmyownyoungdaughtersasifeverythingwerefine.Thecompassionofthepeoplewhocaredformyparents–includingdoctors,nursesandsocialworkers–lessenedtheemotional,physicalandpsychologicalburdenIcarried.Iwitnessedmyparents’returntoGod’shomewithinfivemonthsofeachother.

Often,wedon’tunderstandthelessonsofourpainwhilewe’reinthemidstofit:but,intime,welearnhowtousethoseexperiencestohelpothers.

Iwouldnothavebelievedthatayearaftermyparentsdied,IwouldreturntoSt.Leonardasamarketingemployee,butIdid.Partofmyjobismeetingwithfamiliesthathavestorieslikemine.Somestoriesare

similartoothersIhaveheardbefore;someareunique.Manyofthestoriesarenotyetcomplete,andIhavetheprivilegeofhelpingfamiliesfindsolutionstotheirchallengesascaregivers.ThatwasGod’splanformeallalong.

DEBBIEPARRETT

St.Leonard

Centerville,Ohio

Questions for ReflectionAre you open to God’s plan for you? How do you show that you are?

WHAT IS GOD’S PLAN FOR ME?What is God’s Plan For Me?

“... I have the privilege of

helping families find solutions to

their challenges as caregivers.”

22

Suggested Sacred TextBrothers and sisters: Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:4-7

Sacred StoryWhenIbeganworkinginCatholichealthcare42yearsago,IwasoneofveryfewlaypersonsworkinginthetheologyandethicsareaofCatholichealthcare.Atthattime,seniorleadersinaCatholichospital–theCEO,thechieffinancialofficer,thechiefnursingofficerandcertainlythemissionleader–weremostoftenwomenreligious.

Today,theratiooflaypersonstosistersinCatholichealthcarehascompletelyshifted.Therearemanyfewersistersinleadershiptoday,whilethenumberoflaypersonshasgrowntremendously.

WhenIbeganworkingwiththeSistersofMercyinFarmington,Michigan,myfocuswashelpingthemcarryontheirlegacy,traditionsandvalues.ThatwaswhatCatholicidentitywasallabout.ThespiritualityoftheworkplacewasaveryCatholicspirituality,focusedontheritualsandtraditionsoftheCatholicfaith.

Today,notonlyareourleadersmorelikelytobelaypersons,theyarealsoverylikelynottobeCatholic.TheyhavenothadlifeexperiencewiththeritualsandtraditionsoftheCatholicChurch.So,thewaywedefinethespiritualityofourworkplacehaschangedaccordingly.Wenowbroadlydefinespiritualityasstrivingtogivemeaningtoourwork,ourlivesandourcircumstance.Thatcanincludeourfaithexperienceandtraditions,butdoesn’thaveto.

CHIexpectseveryonetohaveaspiritualityandtobringittowork.Sometimes,peoplewhoarenewtousaskmehowtheycandefinetheirspirituality,becausetheyarenotsuretheyhaveone.Iaskthemaquestion:Ifyouwerediagnosedwithcancerrightnow,howwouldyoufindhope?Theanswerdefinesyourspirituality.Youmightfindhopeinreligionandfaithrituals,butyoumightalsofinditinnature,inyourchildren,involunteering,orinhundredsofotherwaysthatgivemeaningtoyourlife,yoursituationandyourcircumstance.

EveryonewhoispartofCHIshouldknowthis:nomatterwhetheryouattendchurchornot,nomatterwhatyourbeliefsystemis,youhavearoleincarryingonthelegacyofourfoundresses.Tome,Catholicidentityisaboutproclaimingamessage,formingacommunity,andprovidingcaring,lovingservice.Thatiswhatthesistersdid:theirloveandcompassionmadeeveryonefeelcaredfor.That’swhatallofusassociatedwithCHIdotoday.Asweworktoimprovehealth,wealsocelebratethedignityandinherentworthofeachpersonweserve.Bycarryingonthelegacyofthesisters,wemakeitourown.

CARLMIDDLETON

CatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOffice

Englewood,Colorado

Questions for ReflectionHow do you define spirituality? What are some of the ways you express your spirituality?

What are some of the ways that you express your spirituality through your work?

BRING YOUR SPIRITUALITY TO WORKBring Your Spirituality To Work

Suggested Sacred TextO now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place. For now I have chosen and consecrated this house that my name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will be there for all time. — 2 Chronicles 7:15-16

Sacred StoryThedaystartedlikeanyotherintelemetry:busy.Iknewthattwopatientswouldgohomebeforemyshiftended,andathirdwouldgoforaprocedurebymid-morning,sotherewasquiteabitofpaperworktodo.Fortunately,Ithriveonabusyday.ThisiswhyIbecameanurse,tospendmylifehelpingothers.

NurseshavebeenpartofmylifeforaslongasIcanremember;mymomwasanurse,andasachildIspentlotsoftimeasapatientintheSt.AlexiusHeart&LungClinic.Somethingalongthewaygrabbedmeandguidedmetotheprofessionofnursing.

Onthatbusyday,IwasalsoassignedtotakecareofMonika,an88-year-oldwomanwhoneededapacemaker.AsIbegantheadmissionprocess,Monikatoldmethatsheisveryhardofhearing,andIfacedhersothatshecouldreadmylips.AsIlistenedtoMonika’sanswerstomyquestions,Iheardsomethingelse:thevoiceofJesus.Iallowedittoenter,andtoguideme.IsawthatMonikawasanxious,restlessandfrightenedabouthavingapacemaker.Shewantedherfamilynearby.WithMonika’spermission,IinvitedthetwodaughterswhohadaccompaniedherintotheroomwhileIcompletedherassessment.

Duringthenextweekandahalf,IcaredforMonikaandforherdaughtersaswell.IthinktheywereevenmoreanxiousthanMonikawas.Whenevertheyhadaquestion,Imadeeveryefforttofindthebestanswer.Itookcareoffaxingsomepapersforthedaughters

sotheycouldstaywiththeirmom.WhenMonikawastransferredtotheICU,Isoughtoutherdaughterstomakesuretheyunderstoodwhy.

It’srewardingtotakethatextrabitoftimetomeettheneedsofpatientsandtheirfamilies.Ithinkeveryonewhoworksinpatientcarestrivestodevelopabondwitheachpatient,andsometimesitblossomsintosomethingreallyspecial;amomentofpuregrace.ThathappenedwithMonika,herfamilyandme.Andwhenithappens,itrevitalizesandreaffirmsthedecisionImadetobeanurse.

BRIANINMAN,RN

CHISt.AlexiusHealth

Bismarck,NorthDakota

Questions for ReflectionHow do you hear the voice of Jesus in your life?

When have you experienced a “moment of pure grace?”

“ ... it revitalizes and reaffirms the decision I made to

be a nurse.”

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THE ART OF LISTENINGThe Art of Listening

Suggested Sacred TextElijah said, “Lord, I have had enough. Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down and went to sleep. But an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there at his head was a scone baked on hot stones, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. But the angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, or the journey will be too long for you.” So he got up and ate and drank, and strengthened by that food he walked for forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. — I Kings 19:4-8

Sacred StoryDeuteronomy8:10containsthecommandment,“Whenyouhaveeatenandaresatisfied,youwillblesstheHolyOne.”TraditionalJewishrabbiniccommentaryseesthisasthebasisforanexpanded“GraceafterMeals,”whichtraditionalJewsreciteinadditiontoabrieferblessingbeforeeating.

Thisversealsoreflectstheimportantrelationshipbetweenself-careandgratitude.Howoftendowefeelguiltyaboutenjoyinglife’slittlepleasures?Wemaythinkaboutsatisfactionandjoyasluxuries,butthistextsuggeststhattheyareactuallynecessaryinorderforblessingtoemerge.ThegreatrabbitheMaggidofMezrichoncetaughtthatitisonlywhenweenjoyourownlivesthatwefeeltrulymovedtoworkforjusticeforotherssothatthey,too,canexperiencejoy.Ifwedenyourselvesourownneeds,wemaybemorelikelytobegrudgethemtoothers.Inotherwords:joyiscontagious.

Afewdaysago,whileIwasvisitingapatientwhostruggledwithseverepainandfear,anoldmemorysurfacedforhimandourconversationunexpectedly

turnedtolaughter.AsIwatchedhisfacetransform,Iwastouchedbythehealinglightthatgracedusinthatmoment.Asifbyinstinct,hisconversationshiftedtoaplaceofgratitude.IremainthankfulforthereminderofthepoweroftheSpirittobringhealingandhopewhenweleastexpectit.

Mayourdailyworkbringeachofusmomentsofjoyandnourishment,gratitudeandblessing.Maywefindopportunitiestolaughandenjoylifetothefullest.Maytheseleadustoincreasedcompassionforthosearoundusandadeepenedcommitmenttojusticeforeveryone,sothatthedaymaysooncomewheneveryhumanbeingwillknowtruejoyandcontentment,healingandhope.

RABBIDR.NADIASIRITSKY,MSSW,BCC

JewishHospital

KentuckyOneHealth

Louisville,Kentucky

Questions for ReflectionSt. Bernard of Clairvaux is quoted as saying, “You cannot give what you do not have.” How do you keep yourself refreshed so as to be at your best for others?

How might gratitude act to keep you focused on what is good and positive in your life?

24

ENJOY LIFE TO THE FULLESTEnjoy Life to the Fullest

25

Suggested Sacred TextFor where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. — Matthew 18:20

Sacred StoryAtatimewhenthenewsissplatteredwithstoriesaboutviolentclashesbetweenyouthandpolice,CHI’sUnitedAgainstViolencecampaignhasinspiredcollaborationandunityforapeacefulfuture.

Onafallweekendin2015,youthages14-19whoareinvolvedinCHIviolencepreventionprogramsinthreecommunities–Dayton,Ohio;Columbus,Ohio;andLouisville,Kentucky–gatheredwithcommunityandlawenforcementleaderstolearnfromeachotherhowtopreventviolenceintheircommunities.

TheyoungadultfocuscouncilofUnitedAgainstViolenceofGreaterDayton,sponsoredbySamaritanBehavioralHealth,instigatedtheideaofmeetingwithyouthfromotherCHIviolencepreventioninitiatives.AcommunitypolicingconferencehostedbytheMiamiValleyCrimePreventionAssociationprovidedtheperfectopportunity.

Soitwasthat28youthfromDayton,ColumbusandLouisville–andfromAfricanAmerican,HispanicandrecentAfricanImmigrantcultures,aswellasvariousfaithtraditions–cametogetherforaweekend.

Atthecommunitypolicingconference,theyouthwerewelcomedandhonoredfortheirviolencepreventioneffortsbylawenforcementofficersandcommunityleaders.Adedicatedyoungadulttrackhadbeendesignedfortheconference,inwhichtheyouthenhancedtheirawarenessofriskybehaviorsandlearnedaboutappropriateresponsetoactiveshooterencounters.TheyalsojoinedlawenforcementofficersonaspecialSWATobstaclecourse,experiencinga

challenging,authentictestofagilityandphysicalskill.

TheyouthmetprivatelywithDayton’schiefofpolicetotalkaboutcommunityevents,sharesomeoftheirperceptionsandexperiences,andaskabroadarrayofquestionsaboutlifeasapoliceofficer.TheyalsoaskedabouttheskillsandtrainingrequiredtobecomeapoliceofficerorevenanFBIagent.Theclosingsessionbroughtaheartfeltexpressionofgratitudefromlawenforcementandcommunityleadersfortheyouthparticipationthroughouttheday.

TheweekendwasfurtherenrichedthroughconversationsbetweentheyouthandtwomembersoftheMontgomeryCountySheriff’sDepartmentwhostayedwiththem.Astheweekendevolved,sodidtheirmutualtrustandrespect.IdeeplyfeltGod’spresenceintheirvoices,theirfacesandthestoriestheyshared.Theytrulyexemplifiedthevisionandhopeofahealthy,vibrantcommunity.

AsIwatchedtheinteractionsbetweentheseamazingyoungadults,theiradvisors,lawenforcementandcommunityleaders,IwassoprofoundlyproudofCHIandhumbledbythevisionofourfoundressesandthededicationofourleaders.Ourdecade-longUnitedAgainstViolencecampaigntopreventviolenceinthecommunitiesweserveismakingourcountryamorepeaceful,healthyandunifiedhomeforgenerationstocome.DIANEJONES

CatholicHealthInitiativesNationalOffice

Englewood,Colorado

Questions for ReflectionHow are you engaging youth to foster peace and solidarity in your family or community?

How can you affirm the contributions that youth are making to create peaceful, inclusive communities?

YOUTH VIOLENCE PREVENTIONYouth Violence Prevention

26

Suggested Sacred TextDear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. — 1 John 4: 11-12

Sacred StoryDidyoueverfeelthatyoudidn’tknowwhattodo;thatyoujustdidnothavetheanswers?Whenwepray“Thykingdomcome,”weacknowledgethatGodisincharge.Godknows,evenifwedonot,whatwearedoingwithinthedivineplan.

OurhospitalhadjustestablishedaBehavioralInterventionTeam,andIwasathomewhenIgotmyfirstcalltoabehavioralintervention.Uponthefloor,Ifoundthatorderhadbeenrestoredquickly.Ourpatienthadloudlyobjectedtoherdinner,andamoreacceptableselectionwasontheway.

Iknockedonthepatient’sdoorandputmyheadaroundtoaskifshewouldliketotalkwithachaplain.Shewasonthephone,andaskedifIcouldcomeback.HalfanhourlaterIreturned;anewdinnerwasinfrontofher,untouched.Ittookjustalittleempathyabouthospitalfoodbeforeshemovedonthedeeperissues.Shehadn’ttouchedherseconddinner,shesaid,becauseshecouldn’teatwhenshewasupset.And,shehadplentytobeupsetabout.

Shehadcomeintothehospitalnon-responsiveandnearlydead.Now,bothofherlegswereamputated.Reportsfromhomesaidherteenageson,withonlyhisolderbrotherthere,wasbeingevenmorerebelliousthanusual.Sherecognizedthatshehadbecomesoupsetbecauseofallthatshefigurativelyhadonherplate,notbecauseofthefoodthatwasliterallyonherplate.

ThisgaveGodanopportunity.Aswetalked,shecametorealizethatshehadturnedawayfromGod;but,Godmightstillbeworkingforhergood.Indeed,hersmalltownhadapastorwhopatientlytalkedher

throughherconcernsandwhosometimeshelpedinpracticalorevenfinancialways,allwithoutpressuringhertogotochurch!Soon,shewastalkingabouthowmuchshewouldenjoyseeingthehappysurpriseonhisfaceifsheshowedupinchurchthatSunday,whichwouldbeEasterSunday.Shehadbeennearlydead,andnowwasrisingtoanewlife.SheacceptedthatGodwasnotremovingallthehardshipsfromherlife,butshesawthejoysGodprovidedaswell.

Wemadeaplan.Shewouldaskheroldersontotakehertochurch,butfirstshewouldaskhisforgivenessforsomethingsshehadsaidtohim.Afterweprayed,sheimmediatelybegantodialherson’snumber.

Afewdayslater,Iphonedheratherhome.Shesaidshestruggledwithphysicalpain,butbothofhersonswerehelpingher.Heroldersonhadtakenhertochurch.Ithadn’tbeeneasyforhertostayfortheentireservice,butshethoughtitwasimportanttodoso.Thepastorwas,indeed,surprisedandhappytoseeher;“Itwasgreat,”shesaid.Shenowhadenoughfaith,hopeandjoytocontinueonGod’spathforher.

JIMCUMMINGS

CHIHealthSt.Elizabeth

Lincoln,Nebraska

Questions for ReflectionYou are not told by the author why the woman was brought in unresponsive or why she had her legs amputated. Did you wonder about that when you read the story?

This may have been one of the lowest points in this woman’s life and yet she seemed to find some grace and hope when she was talking with the chaplain. Did you ever experience God’s grace at a low point, or know someone who did?

Patients or others can often be so upset that they lash out at us. How do you handle yourself and those people in such situations?

There is a great need for behavioral health services in our country and people speak of the stigma against mental illness. Have you seen evidence of this?

BREAD FROM HEAVENBread From Heaven

27

Suggested Sacred TextGod is not attained by a process of addition to anything in the soul, but by a process of subtraction. — Meister Eckhart

Sacred StoryIwasontheprecipiceofturning60,enteringthesensationaldecadeofmylife.Allwaswell...butwasitreally?Ifoundmyselfstrugglingeverydaywithexcessweight.IdidnotlikewhatIfelt,saworexperiencedinmybody.Ihadreachedadepthofdespairandthesicknessofmysoulgrippedeveryounceofmybeing:body,mind,andspirit.

IheardthescripturefromICorinthianscalltome:“AreyounotawarethatyouarethetempleofGod,andthattheSpiritofGoddwellsinyou?ForthetempleofGodisholy,andyouarethattemple.”

IfthetempleofGodisholy,andIamthattemple,thenIknewIneededseriousrenovation.Ihadtorelyonothersandletthemassistintherenovation.And,IhadtosurrendertoGodinordertorighttherelationshipwithmyself,inbody,mind,andspirit.

GodknewIneededaskilledrenovatorwhowasalsoagentlesoulandaspiritualgiant.That’swhenIlearnedmycolleagueGlenda,isalsoawonderfultrainer.Sheinvitedmetoalifeofhealthinbody,mindandspirit.“Iwill‘beyourperson’onthejourney,”shesaid.Herinvitationwashumbling,overwhelming,frightening;andmyresponsewasanall-in“yes!”

WhatIlearnedinthenext12weekswastowrapmyselfinthejoyoftheLordasmystrength.Ilearnedthatrenovationbeginswithstrengtheningthecorefoundationofbody,mindandspirit.Glendataughtmethatthroughnutritionalchoices,workouts

andrelianceonGod,transformationismorethanpossible:itisprobable.

TheprogressImadein12weeksincludedaconsistentworkoutregimen,weightlossof22pounds,anutritionalplanthateliminatedprocessedfoods,120,900minuteswithoutchocolate,anddailymeditation.LittledidIknowthatinthoseweeksmyheartandsoulwouldbechallengedtolivemoredeeplyandbeopentoreceivelove,inandfromeveryfacetofmylife.Perhapsmostimportantly,mysoulcameoutofbankruptcyandwasrenewedandrefreshedinconsciouscontactwithmyGod.

IbelieveinthedepthsofmysoulthatGodputspeople–notmany,justafew–intoourlivesatjusttherightmoments.IamstandingtallertodayontheshouldersofGlendaandherministryofhealthandwellness.

Itisnowoneyearlater,960ounceslighterandmytempleisnotyetfullyrenovated,butIknowIcannevershutthedooragain.Asfrighteningassurrender,vulnerabilityandopeningourheartandsoulcanbe,theriskisworthit!“ForthetempleofGodisholy,andyouarethattemple!”

DIANNAKIELIAN

CHIFranciscanHealth

Tacoma,Washington

Questions for ReflectionWhat are you doing to prevent “sickness of the soul?”

Whose shoulders do you stand on?

THE RENOVATIONThe Renovation

28

Suggested Sacred TextHave I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. — Joshua 1:9

Sacred StoryIrecentlyattendedtheFoundationsofLeadershipinCatholicHealthCareeducationalsessionatCHI’sEnglewoodoffices.Iwashonoredtobeinvited,butwithsomelevelofself-righteousness,IalsobelievedthatIalreadyknewalotaboutbeingCatholicduetomyCatholicupbringing.Mythoughtwas:WithyearsofcatechismandCatholicschooling,whatcouldCHIteachmeaboutbeingaCatholicleaderthatIdidn’talreadyknow?

ThemainpresenterthefirstafternoonwasEdwardMcCormack,PhD,anexceptionallytalentedprofessorfromCatholicUniversityofAmerica.AsIexpected,hefocusedourattentiononanumberofbiblicalstoriesaboutthehealingministryofJesus,allofwhichwere–onthesurface–familiartome.

Then,theunexpectedhappened.

DuringadiscussionaboutthestoryinwhichJesushealedlepers,Dr.McCormackexplainedthatJesusdidsomethingthatwastotallyunthinkableatthattime:whileothersranawayatthesightofaleper,Jesusapproachedthemandtouchedthem.Andtheywerehealed.Thisstorywasnotnewtome,butatthatmomentIfeltasifI’dhadabucketoficewaterdumpedonmyhead.

Ineedtotouchmorelepers.Ican’thealthemall(oranyofthem,really,asthatissolelytheprovinceofOurLord),butIcan’tbeafraidtotry.

Iunderstoodinthatmomentthatweallencounterlepersatworkeveryday.Somemaytaketheformof

adifficultsituation;othersareprojects,assignmentsortasksthatwefindespeciallychallenging.IreflectedonthemanytimesI’verejectedthelepersIencounteratworkbysaying,“That’snotmyjob,”“Ican’thelpyou,”or“Idon’thavetimerightnow.”

Wedon’tleadorinspirebyrunningfromtheselepers,weleadandinspirebyseekingthemout.Whateverthechallengeis,itwillalwaysbea“leper”ifwedon’tatleastreachout,touchit,andgivetheLordthechancetoworkthroughus.

Thatnight,somecolleaguesandIdiscussedkeepingCHIdifferentanduniquebydoingthingsthataredifferentandunique.Forme,theveryfactthatIcanstopandreflectonthatissueisdifferentandunique.AtCHI,wehaveanopportunitytoreflect,learnand–mostimportantly–sharewithoneanother.Inthisway,wecaninspirethosearoundusandallowourselvestobeinspired,too.

ADAMWHITE

CHIHealth

Omaha,Nebraska

Questions for ReflectionWhen was the last time you touched a leper? What was that experience like for you?

When was the last time you reached out for help, and someone helped you? What was that experience like for you?

I NEED TO TOUCH MORE LEPERSI Need To Touch More Lepers

Catholic Health Initiatives promotes a workplace spirituality in

which we can come closer to being aware of our God working with us and through us, even in our most

ordinary activities.

The patient said I should be very proud of our team.

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