A Shot in the Arm

A Real Shot in the Arm

Who knew that a phrase so common in our vernacular would now depict an experience that is reverberating around our globe?

We’ve all used the expression “a shot in the arm” to convey something having a sudden and positive effect, providing encouragement and new activity. As our communities ramp up vaccine distribution and the warmth of the sun returns, we can now share a common sense of revitalization.

As we undergo the literal and metaphorical Covid-19 vaccine shots in the arm, let us take time to reflect on the past long months of hardship and loss. May this poem from the Transforming Chaplaincy newsletter be a blessing to you as you navigate this next stage of our Covid-19 journey.

And may you experience revitalization, new hope and joy this spring.

A Blessing as You Receive the Coronavirus Vaccine

Dear one,

how brave you have been!

Ten months of exhausting work,

family challenges, fear and worry,

death and loss and grief.

Ten months of showing up,

day after lengthy day,

faithfully offering the gift of yourself

in service to others.

And now: the day has finally arrived!

At long last, the vaccine is here!

We are turning the corner:

darkness to light,

despair to hope,

illness to healing,

isolation to companionship,

sorrow to joy.

Yes, we still have a ways to go.

Covid is still with us.

We still grieve, we are still so tired.

We still have work to do.

But time and again, you have proven this truth:

you are brave.

Today, we join our hearts in hope:

that the vaccine will provide physical protection,

that you will receive the comfort and strength you need,

and that you will know that the light has dawned.

Today is a good day, a joyous day.

May it be a day that gives you hope

Rev. Heather M. Hinton

Lahey Hospital and Medical Center

Burlington, Massachusetts

We're looking forward to a joyous evening that celebrates the vital spiritual care that Bishop Anderson House provides across Chicagoland. We'll gather on Zoom at 5PM on May 2nd to honor special people, learn about exciting new programming, and lend financial support to sustain Bishop Anderson House's mission. Guests will receive a "party packet" via email with unique beverage and appetizer recipes curated by our Friends of the House, guaranteed to enhance your at home experience.

This unique and enjoyable virtual format allows our supporters from across the country to party together--we can't wait to see you!

Purchase tickets or make a donation

Five Wishes--Make Your Wishes Known

To commemorate National Health Care Decisions Day, Bishop Anderson House will present an informative virtual workshop on Advance Care Planning. Learn how to talk to your family about what matters most, as The Rev. Tommy Rogers walks you through the Five Wishes booklet used in our Spiritual Care Visitor Training.

Zoom workshop offered:

Saturday, April 10, 10-11 a.m.

Thursday, April 15, 7-8 pm.

Individual and group participation is welcome.

Cost per individual: $10, includes 2 copies of Five Wishes

Cost per group of 10: $35, includes 10 copies of Five Wishes

Your copies of Five Wishes will be mailed to the address provided, and the link to the Zoom workshop will be emailed the week prior to the date selected.

We have learned from COVID-19 that not one of us knows what is around the corner. Completing a Five Wishes document can give not only you, but those who are dear to you, comfort and confidence that your wishes and desires about end of life treatment will be honored.

Mailing address update

We've had difficulties receiving mail over the past few months and want to assure you we are "addressing" the situation. Please use this revised postal address:

Bishop Anderson House

Rush University Medical Center

1653 W. Congress Pkwy, JEL64

Chicago, IL 60612-3833

Chaplaincy // Social Responsibility & Racial Justice

Spirituality & Wellness // Education