Spring 2023
Dear Friends,
The message of the Risen Lord “Do not be afraid for I am with you always” Isaiah 41:10 reminds us that we need to come to Jesus, no matter what the challenges and struggles that might be in our daily lives. Jesus is truly alive in our hearts and souls for He comes to us in LOVE, in the Eucharist, promising to bring us peace as we trust in His divine mercy. Saint Pope John Paul II coined this phrase “Be Not Afraid” often during his papacy and stated that “In the Redemption we find the most profound basis for the words “Be not afraid!”, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son” John 3:16. The resurrection of Jesus proclaims to the world a new hope, renewal, and a strengthening of our spiritual life.
Each year springtime bursts forth the beauty of nature. There is no alarm clock or electrical switch that turns on the vibrant colors of trees, bushes, and flowers that blossom automatically, bringing new life and smiles to our faces as we capture God’s creation being renewed. This feeling of rebirth penetrates our physical surroundings as we clean, update, reorganize, buy new furnishings, and appliances for our homes.
Sisters at St. Joseph Hill Convent are grateful to all who responded to the digital appeal for new dining room chairs and recliners. Thanks to YOU and your incredible support, I am happy to inform you that the recliners have arrived, with the new dining room chairs on their way.
The St. Mary’s Convent in Akron, Ohio built in 1993 has had minor improvements over the past 30 years. This spring the Sisters will see a major make-over to their community room and kitchen. This project will include:
- ceiling repairs
- replacing carpeting with hardwood floors
- updating radiators and air-conditioning units that will be more energy efficient.
With your generosity, you will be making things new for them by keeping our most senior Sisters with limited accessibility comfortable by accommodating their needs at home with their community with access to a beautiful chapel, allowing them to continue being active in the ministry.
It is a tremendous responsibility and challenge to meet the changing needs of our Sisters. For those of you caring for a loved one, you know firsthand the importance of maintaining safe, accessible, and comfortable living conditions for our loved ones.
With grateful hearts, we thank you in advance for your support and generosity. Please know that you are remembered in our daily prayers and Mass intentions.
In Gratitude,
Sister Mary Coffelt, F.D.C.
Provincial Superior