Sister Jean René says goodbye to Emma Hall

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAEleven years ago, I was asked to be Coordinator for our Sisters at the Maria Joseph Nursing Facility. I had been an elementary teacher for 20 years and a physical therapy assistant for 10 years in various nursing homes in the Denver area. In my 30 years in Colorado, many friendships had been formed and memories collected. Yet after deliberate prayer, discussion and sharing, my answer to the Community request was an affirmative YES!

The first months in Dayton were quite an adjustment for me because the sights and sounds of Colorado lingered in my being. However, I experienced so much love, encouragement and assistance from all the Sisters, that the transition became easier by the day. My ministry was with our 52 Sisters residing at the Maria Joseph Center — it had become a ministry of service and dedication to the total care of our elderly Sisters. No need was too great, no want unfulfilled. My life was centered around the Sisters 24/7. With each passing day, week and year the energy and service was rewarded a hundredfold.

The graces and blessings I received daily from serving these holy women will always be a part of my life. God has truly blessed me throughout these 11 years with dedicated co-workers, generous and loving volunteers, a caring nursing staff, supportive and encouraging Councils and C.PP.S Sisters. My ministry at Emma Hall has been enriching and life-giving and I hope the future holds many more grace-filled years of dedicated service to those in need.

I want to say a special thank you to all who have been a part of my life. You are truly a blessing to me!

— Sister Jean René Hoying

Ed note: Sister Jean René Hoying resigned her ministry as coordinator of Emma Hall at the Maria-Joseph Center at the end of May.

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