Every year, our 6th grade class from Springdale Nazarene Church near Cincinnati embarks on a 4-day service trip. This year, we brought 14 students to St. Mary’s Home at the recommendation of my friend Lauren who lives in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.
We were busy from the first day we arrived in Chicago until we climbed into our bus to drive home. During the 5-hour back, we had ample time to reflect on our visit. We LOVED the time we spent with the Sisters and Residents, calling BINGO and serving at their ice-cream social. We realized that one of the most important and fulfilling things we did was to share in fellowship with the Residents. It was such a joy to experience generations coming together over a game and conversation.
I was fortunate to receive a quick tour of St. Mary’s Home before we left and was amazed to see how generously local businesses respond to the Sisters’ request for food and supplies.
Our kids also had some thoughts to share:
“I wasn’t sure what to expect at Little Sisters of the Poor. I was a little nervous; not sure what to say or what to do. But the Residents and Sisters were so welcoming, we were really glad to be with them! I loved playing games and hearing some of their amazing stories,” Hallie, age 11.
“Bingo was awesome!! We laughed so hard together that it felt like we were just hanging out. I would go back anytime. It sort of changed my mind about doing activities like that. I want to do more,” Logan, age 12
Everyone agreed there was a great spirit of love and respect in the home. We are very thankful for our time with the Residents and Little Sisters, and we look forward to joining our new friends again soon.
BINGO, Ice Cream and New Found Friends