By Tanya Connor
The Catholic Free Press
WORCESTER – The staff and residents of St. Mary Health Care Center were honored June 11 for taking care of one another during the pandemic. Some gathered around outside and some watched from inside as their chaplain, Msgr. James P. Moroney, blessed a dogwood tree planted for the occasion. The names of 34 residents who died from COVID-19 were read.
Msgr. Moroney spoke of times when people entered the residence with tears or held someone who was sick or dying.
“But you hung in there and you did what was right,” he said. He told them God “still wants you to be his hands and his voice and his presence for so many who need you.”
The brief ceremony of prayers, and a Scripture reading from Rev. 22 about the tree of life, was a chance for those involved to reflect on what they do.
“We saw the tears; we heard the sniffles,” as the community was honored, Ron Doty, the center’s president, told The Catholic Free Press. “Some of the people here don’t stop.… They work so hard.”
The tree is a tribute to the staff and residents who selflessly cared for each other during the pandemic, said Colin McNabb, director of mission and pastoral care. By caring for others as Christ taught, “we build up the Kingdom,” he said.
“This has been a year like no other,” said a message in the program, addressed to staff from the board of directors and leadership of Covenant Health, of which the center is a member. “COVID-19 has tested all of us in unimaginable ways, and at times these challenges have been heartbreaking. Many of you have also experienced significant loss both personally and professionally. At every turn, however, you put the needs of our patients, residents, families and co-workers ahead of all else. You have collaborated to design solutions that have helped us celebrate successes. Quite simply, the long hours and hard work saved lives.
“Today, we commemorate your tireless commitment and sacrifice. You exemplify the best in Catholic health care, and we are proud.”