Caring for and enriching the lives of seniors is one of the many ministries the Felician Sisters are committed to. Sr. Mary Geralyn Mroczkowski, CEO of Felician Services, recognizes the key role of laypeople to carry on the legacy of Blessed Mary Angela, and so do the leaders at St. Anne Home in Greensburg, PA.
In recognition of health care workers living the Felician values every day, St. Anne Home dedicated two full weeks in May to honor their staff during National Nurses Week and Care & Service Week.
“Laypeople take up what we cannot do, but they also add a benefit, They add a different dimension to our ministry. They come from different lifestyles. They come from different experiences, and they have a different way of touching the lives of others.”
Sr. Geralyn Mroczkowski, CEO of Felician Services
The week kicked off with a visit from the Most Reverend Bishop Larry J. Kulick, J.C.L., of the Diocese of Greensburg who, along with co-celebrant St. Anne chaplain Father Stephen Concordia, O.S.B., celebrated Mass with residents and staff. Readings were presented by Mary Melko, Director of Activities, and Sr. Mary Charlene Ozanick. After Mass, the Bishop had the opportunity to meet and speak with residents and their families.
Various activities were scheduled throughout the weeks to show appreciation for the dedication and love health care staff show to St. Anne Home residents. Staff received treats, participated in fun themed days like Crazy Hats and Crazy Hair, and enjoyed a Carnival Day with games, food, and prizes.
A different nurse was featured each day during National Nurses Week. One of the nurses featured, Jessica, explained that the driving force behind her career choice was “the desire I have to help people in need,” and another, Alyssa, said she wanted “to make a difference and help others.”
Many of the featured staff spoke about how difficult the COVID pandemic has been, and the burnout that health care workers experience on a regular basis. Despite the hardships they face, they expressed commitment to the residents at St. Anne Home. These very special people live the mission of Blessed Mary Angela, and in her own words, “One who is always ready to do the will of God is really a saint and already, here on earth, enjoys constant peace.”
