Sister Patricia Cashman SSJ loved living in Saint Andrew Convent in Bayonne, New Jersey, a retirement community. When the Convent closed in 2016, Pat was faced with a major decision. She recalls, “I was very sorry to have to leave Saint Andrew’s; it was a lovely place. Moving to another convent or going to the Villa was a choice I had to make. I chose the Villa and it has been wonderful! It is peaceful, prayerful and luxurious — a dream come true and what you might even dare to hope for in retirement.”
After settling in her new home, Pat joined the choir, and volunteered as a driver for sisters who do not drive. “My usual routes are CVS, the Dollar Store and Boscov’s. And, some of the sisters just want to get out and go for a ride on a beautiful day.”
Pat has always incorporated exercise into her daily routine and has continued that healthy practice at the Villa. “I walk well and I want to remain that way. We can use the exercise equipment in the Therapy Room and soon will have our own exercise room, which will be available all day for the sisters who live here.”
When asked about what she loves most about living at the Villa, Pat breaks into her beautiful smile. “There are many good deeds and helpful things that come across your path every day. People are always helping each other in small ways: pushing a wheel chair out of the elevator or assisting someone with a walker to navigate a door. These are small things, but they matter so much — it is heartwarming.
I love the ease of living here, the surrounding beauty everywhere, inside and outside. I meet wonderful sisters all day long, and witness the amazing quality of each one’s person; the more I interact, the more awed I am.
The Administration and staff go out of their way to make everything lovely, convenient and happy. Sisters often have their family stay for dinner or supper when they come to visit. The beautiful new community room on the first floor will soon be available for us to use for ourselves or when we have company.
Every Sunday after dinner you can make your own Sunday — that’s a big hit!”
When Pat thinks about making the decision to come to the Villa, she admits she was somewhat reluctant. “I knew I would have to allow for the limited space in the bedroom. In fact, I threw my three bathing suits away. Well, recently I went to Boscov’s and bought a new one! You do have to cut down your wardrobe, but you certainly don’t have to cut down the quality of life! It is wonderful here, and I am not finished life yet!”