As I followed the Holy Spirit from The University of Maryland to the Little Sisters of the Poor home in Somerville, MA, I embarked on a week filled with many learning opportunities, an outpouring of grace and a whole lot of love. By stepping away from a culture that so values productivity and tangible results, my time with the Little Sisters helped me to look at productivity in a different light. I learned that stopping and asking someone how they are doing, listening to someone’s stories or simply holding someone’s hand in their moment of need is pleasing to the Lord and is in fact exactly what He willed for me in that moment. Spending time with the residents also helped me gain more understanding of the beauty of life, even and especially in old age. The Lord showed me that He has a purpose for each of our lives no matter what stage we are in them. It was so beautiful to see how the sisters and staff at the Little Sisters home understand this and to see how this understanding is translated and reflected in their care and love for the residents. The chance to spend a week loving and serving Christ in the elderly was something I feel so blessed to have experienced. I am thankful to have been able to have spent my spring break in a place where the Holy Spirit reigns and love and the abundant life is so cherished.
Jessica Metcalfe, University of Maryland
When I first started thinking of where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do over Spring Break I never thought I would end up in Somerville, MA working with the Little Sisters of the Poor, but I can definitely say that I am so glad that that is where God placed me. My week with the Little Sisters was a beautiful experience and a lesson in what it means to love God and His people. Having the Little Sisters as an example of how to live a life rooted in Christ was a great thing to see. They have helped me to understand that every day I must choose to devout my life to Christ and to do His will. The residents also played a huge part in my experience. Being a college student I don’t often take time to slow down and appreciate life, but the residents showed me how to enjoy and find beauty in the more simple things in life. They also showed me how God is still working through their lives, even at an old age. And to see their faithfulness to Him is inspiring. I feel so thankful and blessed to have experienced a week with such wonderful and holy people.
Amy Ross, Benedictine College, KS
