Archbishop Tobin visits Saint Mary-of-the-Woods
On Tuesday, Aug. 19, Archbishop Joseph Tobin paid a visit to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Archbishop Tobin presided at the 11:30 a.m., Mass, and enjoyed dining with the Sisters of Providence at Providence Hall. He also visited with residents of Providence Health Care. Below are some photographs of his visit.
There is always something to be gleaned with the wisdom of the ages! Glad the Archbishop walks the talk while exemplifying the 4th commandment in his presence with the elders and suffering!
Most folks that know me would probably agree, I am rarely at a loss for words! I often jokingly refer to myself as “motormouth.” Dave Cable once told me I was the cheerleader of PHC! It’s true that I have never met a stranger. I always find a something to offer others – a bagel, a cup of coffee, a ‘you look nice today’, or simply a ‘thank you.’ The littlest of things can bring such pleasure to someone’s day. Sometimes it is a kind word, a smile, or just a hello that they need. It is so easy for me because I encounter many people on a daily basis throughout the halls of Mother Theodore Hall, as I work at Providence Health Care as Director of Health Information.
Last week, I found myself in unfamiliar territory, at a total loss for words, as I stood in my office and looked up to see Sister Lisa Stallings at my office door with who else but Archbishop Tobin! As I stared up at him, I sensed warmth in his smile, compassion in his knowing eyes, and he had his hand extended toward me. Oh no! Was he really going to shake my hand???
I stood there frozen! I could not muster a single word! Finally, I said, “Hi. I am Jennifer.” He knew this as Sister Lisa had already said this. I must have looked like a star-struck amateur performing on a stage for the first time! He spoke so softly, with such purpose, as he said, “Bless you my child for your service here.” I must admit, I have seen some wonderful things, experienced several really neat moments in time; been to concerts to see everyone from Kenny Chesney to Conway Twitty. Why-just this past Spring I attended four college basketball games, the ” sweet 16″ in Indy at Lucas Oil Stadium to determine the final four teams to play in the NCAA college basketball championship. Yet, in all of those nail biting, sitting on the edge of my seat type of games, I can’t recall ever once feeling as invigorated as I did when I heard his tone as he spoke to me. He appeared to be a big man and I could not deny his powerful demeanor. Yet, something whispered compassion to me. He seemed so very genuine and down to earth. After we shook hands and he proceeded to move on through the therapy department. I just stood there in my office, frozen in my tracks, knowing at that moment, thanks to Lisa Stallings, I had witnessed another treasured moment at Saint Mary of-the-Woods. Seems my journey this past year as a Providence Associate Candidate has been a journey comprised of one treasured moment after another! So many milestones.
Indeed, I felt blessed. I love my job! I also love the Charism of Providence. I am so lucky to be able to share in a little part of the magic of Love, Mercy, and Justice on these sacred grounds. Thank you Sisters of Providence for all the beauty you share with folks like me!