by Sr. Mildred Gross, ASC
During the month of May healthcare people celebrate a variety of activities for National Hospital Week, Nurses’ Week, Nursing Home Week, etc.
Sister Mildred Gross was invited by one of the Medical Doctors, Dr. Jeffery Parks, who she knew from her spiritual care ministry at Southern Illinois Healthcare in Herrin, IL, 1995 – 2002, to participate in a luncheon and anointing of hands at the Memorial Care Center connected to Belleville Memorial Hospital, a non-denomination facility. This occurred on Tuesday, May 13. Doctor Parks also invited Sr. Margaret Heimann who had received medical care from him during her rehab at the Center in 2024.
The sisters were at the entrance of the employee lunchroom to greet them and offer an anointing of hands. About 50 employees participated in the anointing before picking up a delicious meal provided by Dr. Parks and his wife, Sherrie. Sister Mildred anointed their hands and said: “May your hands and work be blessed. Know that you are a blessing to all whose life you touch.” Sister Margaret handed them a bookmark that said: We are Christ’s hands and feet on earth.”
It was quite a moving experience. Employees of all faiths welcomed the blessing of their hands. Their faces turned to happiness when they heard that they were a blessing in the lives of so many people. Sister Margaret met several of the physical and occupational therapists who cared for her.
We had more than a warm reception by the staff. We were thankful for such a blessed experience.
