We had the opportunity to host 14 students and their chaperone from Boston University who spent an alternative spring break at St. Martin’s Home. The students started their week with us marching in the St. Patrick Parade – just hours after getting off the bus from Boston! Throughout the week, they joined in activities with the Residents, playing bingo and cards, helped with spring house cleaning, provided a helping hand wherever needed and joined us at Mass and prayers. It was a time filled with joy! Each student touched our hearts and will be remembered with great affection! With their permission, we wanted to share some of the comments left with the Little Sisters in a memory book presented to us at their departure:
“I knew this week would be a transformational week for the students, but I am certain that I underestimated the effect that this experience would have on me. This week has strengthened my faith, warmed my heart, and worked my body. All were welcome occurrences! I lost the last of my grandparents last year and interacting with all of the truly inspirational and wonderful Residents was so wonderful. I have missed talking to and caring for elderly loved ones so much.” (Ali B., Chaperone)
“Words cannot completely express how grateful I am to have met you all. Your complete devotion to the amazing Residents who live here has left me in awe. Never have I met a group of such selfless, caring, hardworking and tolerant people, and I honestly feel blessed to even be in your presence.” (Natasha D.)
“Being able to share our experiences with all of you and each other has opened us up to new ideas and inspiring ways of living. Thank you for your kindness and wisdom. We will carry it with us always.” (Bethany R.)
“Your warm hospitality and love have left us with lasting impressions.” (Ernesto B.)
“The work that you do here at St. Martin’s Home may, at first, seem to be simply assisting the elderly. It is a million times more than that! Your dedication, compassion, and calming grace are truly inspiring. I hope to one day embrace life with the same enthusiasm and love that you do. I’m still in awe in your ability to achieve the impossible, while simultaneously connecting and engaging with each Resident and volunteer. You made me feel incredibly welcome and with your encouragement, capable of any tasks set before me.” (Mariah H.)
“This truly has been one of the most touching experiences of my life. Before this, I knew very little about elders (other than my grandma) and even less about elder care in America. Though it may not be universal yet, seeing the way people live here and the way that you have dedicated your lives to taking care of the elderly poor makes me feel so good about everyone that is with the Little Sisters of the Poor and even about growing old myself.” (Paul M.)
For more information and pictures click here.
SPRING BREAK AT ST. MARTIN’S HOME, BALTIMORE