"The power of the Holy Spirit, which is bestowed upon he who loves God and keeps His commandments, does not appear visibly in the form of fire, nor does it come with a loud sound like a violent wind. Instead, it is seen spiritually in the form of spiritual light, and comes with all calm and joy."
— Constantine Cavarnos
Sister Margaret Elaine Rovnak fills the screen with her vibrant spirit during a recent video chat with Sister Elaine Hromulak.
His Spirit Shines in Their Smiles
Our sisters who live in nursing homes have been especially isolated at this time, as all non-medical visits are restricted and they are even confined to their rooms for meals. Therefore, it’s been especially important for our community to reach out and reassure them they remain on our minds and in our hearts.
 
At Vincentian Home in Pittsburgh, Pa. — home to Sisters Grace Chermack and Margaret Elaine Rovnak — activity personnel have been arranging phone and video calls with family members by appointment. Sister Georgette Dublino has been able to speak over the phone with Sister Grace. Likewise, Sister Elaine Hromulak has been video chatting with Sister Margaret Elaine on Wednesdays with the help of an iPad.
 
“She remains a little amazed by the technology, but it is nice to see her smile,” says Sister Elaine. “She grows more and more comfortable with it each time we talk.”
 
An iPad also serves as a connection between Sister Carolyn Mitrichka at Holy Family Manor in Bethlehem, Pa. and our Sisters at Monocacy Manor. A recent video chat coincided with brunch, so our Sisters gathered in the dining room got to see and talk with Sister Carolyn. Sister Mary Xavier Bomberger, one of several Sisters who connect with Sister Carolyn by phone at least every other day, says, "She was greeted by each one and received their smiles, as we enjoyed hers."
One-on-One with Our Sisters
Our Sisters were asked to reflect on things they miss and things they cherish during these times of extended isolation and disruption of daily life. Here are some of their answers.
How has your prayer life been impacted during the pandemic?

" I am passing my time in longer periods of prayer. I am praying for anyone associated with Mt. Assisi Place. I'm also praying to our deceased Sisters."
— Sister Virginia Rose Carroll

Have you found any silver linings in these strange times?

"Though I miss attending Mass at church, p raying in the same place is a silver lining. Slowing down has helped me to get my bearings."
— Sister Yolanda Escamilla

How have you been spending any extra time you've gained from the disruptions to daily living?

" I am still doing jigsaw puzzles. For each piece that I put in, I pray an act of love. But now during the pandemic I pray for the first-responders, those afflicted with the coronavirus and those who have a relative or friend who has this virus."
— Sister Rosalia Giba


What do you most miss doing during this time of extended isolation?

" I do miss driving and getting what is needed, but then that is part of our vow of poverty. I must be thankful that I have my faculties, a place to live and food."
— Sister Cecilia Jacko
The Beauty
of the Universe
An Original Poem by Sister Karen Buco

The sun, a sign of God's warm love,
shines its rays from heaven above.
It brightens my spirit beginning each new day
and sheds its light and warmth along my way.
It touches me so gently on every side,
as it stretches for miles so far and wide.

Reflecting on the waters,
it mirrors the beauty of God's face.
Passing over land and sea,
it reaches each and every place.
As its brightness fades into darkness,
and dusk sets on the earth,
it slowly dims and hides until
the dawn calls it to a new birth.

The rolling clouds passing quickly,
the gentle breeze of the bowing trees
whisper clearly to me, "See, I'm right
here in each and every one of these."

The heavens, earth, sea, trees, and
plants, come forth at his command,
For the beauty of the universe is the
handiwork of God's creating hand.
St. Francis' Praises of God the Most High
You are holy, Lord, the only God, You do wonders.
You are strong, You are great, You are the most high,
You are the almighty King.
You, Holy Father, the King of heaven and earth.
You are Three and One, Lord God of gods;
You are good, all good, the highest good,
Lord, God, living and true.
You are love, charity.
You are wisdom; You are humility; You are patience;
You are beauty; You are meekness; You are security;
You are inner peace; You are joy; You are our hope and joy;
You are justice; You are moderation, You are all our riches.
You are beauty, You are meekness;
You are the protector,
You are the guardian and defender;
You are strength; You are refreshment.
You are our hope, You are our faith, You are our charity,
You are all our sweetness,
You are our eternal life:
Great and wonderful Lord,
God almighty, Merciful Savior.

"During the 'lockdown,' I have been finding comfort in this prayer," says Sister Nancy Celaschi. "I pray it reflectively each day, and often one attribute really strikes me. I try to keep that 'word' with me all day. Sometimes it is 'hope;' sometimes 'security,' and sometimes 'joy and gladness.' It is interesting when I look back upon the day to see how that word resonated with me at different times during the day." What word will inspire your spirit today, on this Pentecost Sunday?
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