May the hearts of those who have enough
be open to filling the empty hands
of those who do not have the basic necessities.
- Pope Francis
Dear Sisters, Associates, and Colleagues,
One of the challenges of this global health crisis has been the confinement, which we have been asked to observe, in order to ensure the health and well-being of others. Nevertheless, while we are observing these guidelines, our minds and hearts are with those whose lives have been upended by the coronavirus.
At times of need, we are accustomed to reaching out, and offering assistance and solidarity. However, the virus, and the guidelines to promote safety, have forced us to imagine alternative ways of offering support. I am aware of the prayers, the many acts of consideration and kindness that all of you are offering for healthcare workers, food service providers, and every group of people made vulnerable by this pandemic. Each one of these acts contribute to the culture of care that we SSNDS are committed to promoting throughout our world. Each one of these helps to bridge divisions and bring about ‘the oneness for which Jesus Christ was sent.”
In addition to your personal efforts, I would like to let you know that our province has been offering financial support to a number of organizations in Canada, the United States and globally who are caring for people impacted by the coronavirus. These donations have gone to groups in Maryland, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Florida and Canada. Many of these donations are in support of food pantries, nutrition programs for all ages, and emergency responses to families in need. Some donations have gone to domestic violence shelters and homes for young mothers. We are also supporting a particularly disenfranchised community in India. We continue to respond, as we are able, to requests that come to us.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for the many ways you are reaching out to help one another during these difficult days. Let us pray that our efforts, combined with the countless acts of care and love being offered throughout the world, will bring healing, hope and love to our brokenhearted world.
Many blessings,
Charmaine
(Sister Charmaine Krohe, SSND, Provincial Leader)