“Even though we were here to serve the Residents, we received such kindness, thoughtfulness and
hospitality from everyone, I felt like a guest!
I am so grateful for the joy of this Home and our warm welcome into it!” Mary Winn Granum
Little Sisters, Residents and staff recently welcomed Boston University students to St. Martin’s Home for the third consecutive year. 11 girls from diverse homelands (including Sri Lanka, Beijing, Kuwait, Hawaii, and Arizona, to mention a few) chose a week of service instead of a traditional spring break.
The students kept busy – from organizing old files to sorting seeds for the garden. The Development Department utilized the talents of Kriti Singhvi to create mailing lists and data bases for upcoming events and Sister Cecilia had the girls help with “spring cleaning” around the home. Working with the dietary staff, they served meals in the Resident dining areas. BU student Katie Callaway said “it was so much fun to work on projects with Sister Cecilia and have a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at the hard work that keeps the Home running.” A Resident Wheelchair Car Wash found the group on their hands and knees demonstrating humble service by hand washing walkers and wheelchairs. At the end of the week, the group sang, danced and performed magic tricks during their Talent Show. Sheryn Chug said it was “heartwarming seeing the Residents happy and excited as we performed!”
Sinali Perera could not believe the Residents were so active, stating “they are more active than I am!” The girls enjoyed one-on-one time with Residents and found our three 100-year old Residents fascinating with their sharp minds, ability to reminisce, and keen sense of humor!
The Little Sisters arranged sightseeing opportunities to Washington DC’s American Museum of Women in the Arts and Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for our Boston friends.
Sister Cecilia referred to this group of students as “exceptional”! We are pleased to continue this arrangement with Boston University and appreciate the wonderful students who touched the lives of our Residents.
Thoughts on “spring break” at St. Martin’s Home by our friends from Boston University:
My involvement with the Residents, Sisters and staff of St. Martin’s Home taught me that happiness resides in the smile of others and that small things DO matter; but most importantly it taught me “how to serve.” -Kriti Singhvi
This experience surpassed all my expectations. The Sisters were more accommodating than I could have expected. I was also surprised by the connections I made with the Residents this week, and I will definitely miss them. -Priya Pugalenthi
I learned so much from this week, most importantly how to love others. The Sisters were so nice to us – which made us want to work harder! -Akeelah Ji
I had an amazing time interacting with the Residents along with organizing and hosting different activities for them. I learned so much from the Residents – especially how to always be happy! -Varika Govil
“SPRING BREAK” AT ST. MARTIN’S HOME