HOGAR SANTA MARIA EUFRASIA PRESENTATION

Transcription

1 For 20 years in defense of life!

2 PRESENTATION To remember is to retake life in order to admire and be thankful. This is what you will find on these pages written from our hearts, happily gathering brushstrokes from 20 years lived fully, generating life in each youth and child that have come to our Home in search of a friendly, uplifting hand. As a work team, we in Santa María Eufrasia Home, have experienced that giving is receiving. The joy of watching life take shape and grow fills us with hope and keeps us faithful to our commitment to continue offering the best; always searching for new alternatives that may allow these girls to grow in dignity, side by side with the healthy and happy development of their babies. There is a song of praise to the Lord that reflects our history in Puerto Rico: I gave my effort, I gave my zeal, you, Jesús, gave the rest. Yes, many generous hands of lay sisters and brothers and other good friends have joined us and that is why today we contemplate with profound gratitude the story of this beautiful Home where life is sheltered and protected. Our thanks to all for walking by our side and proclaiming with Saint Mary Euphrasia: One person is worth more than a world! Sister Francisca Torres Director Hogar Santa María Eufrasia Page 2

3 A FAMILY TELLS THEIR STORY January 12, In the passenger line, five religious sisters belonging to the order Sisters of the Good Shepherd of Angers, from Central America, seem like an unusual team. They arrived with Provincial Superior, Sister Nidia Quesada and, in their hearts, a luggage full of hopes and generous devotion. They were: María del Socorro Contreras, Susana Camacho, Isabel Morera, María Elena Vásquez and Estela Restrepo, who has lived these 20 years with the joy and dedication that distinguish her. Who was Mary Euphrasia? Rosa Virginia, was the name of that privileged little girl born July 31, 1796 in Noirmoutier Island, on the coast of France. Her childhood was a happy one, running around the beach and forest without a worry. Her parents, because of their fervent Christian beliefs, had arrived there as exiles during the violence of the French Revolution. She soon decided to dedicate herself to God as a religious sister, and assumed her new name: MARIE EUPHRASIA. After several years serving socially and morally marginated women, in the year 1835 she founded the congregation Sisters of the Good Shepherd of Angers. Her ardent zeal and immense charity was the same that burned in the hearts of those five travellers that arrived to this Island of Enchantment on that memorable day. A Home Born by the Warmth of the Church Great works are born, grow, and are consolidated at the foot of the cross. (SM Euphrasia) Thus started the fulfillment of a dream: Mr. Jimmy Colón, a man of faith, constant prayer, and loyal commitment, was organizing the Missionary and Charities Community, a group that felt the need to establish a shelter for pregnant teens in precarious social, economic and family situations. This idea was attuned to the great pastoral concern of the late Bishop of Arecibo, Monseñor Miguel Rodríguez. Those were difficult beginnings, but the support of Mons. Rodríguez, and the tenacity and persistence of Father Juan Alers and the Missionary Community made it posible for the Congregation of the Good Shepherd to embrace the project with perseverance. Page 3

4 The bishopric offfered their old residence for the shelter and the Missionary Community tenderly took care of the multiple details for the new Home that soon would open it s doors to receive life and harbor it with hope and love, because today, like yesterday, Santa María Eufrasia Home is an option for life. How fondly we remember that beloved house which during 15 years harbored the laughter and tears, the happiness and sorrow, the efforts and progress of those young mothers, most just beginning their adolescence! Hence, a home was offered where they could await the birth of their babies in harmony and peace, participating at the same time of a diversity of humane, academic and spiritual activities. After a while the building became too small to accommodate any more girls or expand the formative program. This brought about the gestation of the grand idea of building a larger shelter on a property at the outskirts of the city. After great efforts, this property was purchased. Then a new phase began and with it, new demands requiring intense commitment and profound faith in our Lord the Provider. To Love is to Serve Parallel to the everyday life at the Home the body of volunteers grew; other friends received the Lord s calling and were willing to donate their time and service as an expression of love. This is how the Construction Committee for our new shelter was born. Presided by Mr. José Aquino, this group organized several activities in order to raise funds with great hope of reaching their goal: To build our new Home! The fundraising campaign was received with great enthusiasm and sense of responsibility. Mons. Iñaki Mallona, the new Bishop of Arecibo; Father Dimas Soberal, General Vicar; and Father Joseph Schreck, Chancellor, endorsed the initiative completely, exhorting priests and members of the religious parishes and the whole Diocese to colaborate with this noble cause. We would also like to express our gratitude to Dr. Norma Carranza for her noble support as a member, at the time, of the Puerto Rico Senate in helping us obtain valuable funds for the project. A Monument to Life is Built! In 1999 the Board of Directors, presided by Dr. Segundo González, unconditional friend of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd since the Home s foundation, decided to begin the construction with optimism and great faith. Page 4

5 Mr. Andrés Santiago assumed, free of charge and with great audacity, the Project s administration and a Technical Committee was formed by Mr. Jesús Hernández, Mr. Armengol Iglesias, Mr. Pedro Mondecit and Mr. Aníbal Santiago, all of diverse professional backgrounds. We will never be able to express our gratitude sufficiently to these fine friends for their kindness. In spite of all the generous donations that were coming in, once the construction was under way, funds were rapidly depleted and the goal started to seem unreachable. But since it was God s work, He sent his help by means of the joyous tenacity of Father Joseph Schreck, who, through the Bishopric, assumed with admirable concern the search for new funds, particularly by contacting Catholic Extensión Society. Thanks to the generosity of extraordinary benefactors from this organization, we received a miraculous donation that fostered the great fulfillment of our dream. Finally, on december 16, 2001, our dear Bishop, Mons. Iñaki Mallona joyously blessed the new building which was inaugurated among so many friends, benefactors and colaborators. We could not stop praising the magnitude and beauty of the finished facilities. Today, Saint Mary Euphrasia Home stands like a serene and welcoming sentry on the top of a small hill with a wonderful view of the city of Arecibo. We could very well proclaim with prophet Isaías: The hand of God has touched this hill. Is. 25, 10 In March 2002, after the last details were completed and the building was furnished, the girls, their babies; the Sisters and employees, moved to the new home, filling this beautiful refuge that Jesus The Good Shephard had provided with happiness. Following Saint Euphrasia s Footsteps How could we forget the Sisters of the Good Shepherd who, with great missionary spirit, have been leaving pieces of their lives step by step through this beautiful misión? We know they have done so with the only wish that the Kingdom of God may grow in the Heart of this youth and that they may become sowers of life and hope with their children. All the sisters are witnesses of the great love with which many friends approach the Home to offer their spritual and material help; the gift of friendship and generous selflessness. We thank the Lord for this constant evangelizing presence. Page 5

6 Come and See John 1,39 We reach the Home through a short and steep road that announces a splendid scenery. In the midst of a dark green mountain backdrop, the building looks like a decorative flower. It s rectangular structure provides each girl and baby with a room flooded with natural light, a bathroom and modest furniture: bed, nightstand, chest of drawers and, when the baby arrives, a crib. All the rooms converge at a central corridor. There are also a kitchen, dining room, laundry, first aid room, conference room and recreation room for fraternal gatherings. The front of the building consists of a reception area, and the director, social work, psychology, and administrative offices. On the west wing are the Sister s quarters. There are also storage rooms, a garage, and a second story balcony with a spectacular view of the town and coast that complements the structure s beauty. But the privileged part of the Home is it s chapel, where the living presence of God is the Light and Strength that allows this mission to be fulfilled with assertiveness and grace. The green landscape that surrounds the building is ample. There is an ample parking area surrounded by beautiful trees, palms and flowers. It is truly a gift from God. Life at the Home We receive girls from all over the Island, with no discrimination whatsoever. Ordinarily they are re- fered to us by the Department of Family Services, courts, churches and other agencies or families. They arrive during their pregnancy and receive shelter and a diversity of services until the baby is several months old. Their stay at the home is temporary and the length depends on their individual situation. During this time, their date of egress is coordinated with the corresponding agency so that she may be transferred to an adecuate and safe place with her child. From the moment of their arrival, they receive an affectionate welcome, protection, and all basic services such as food, clothing, medical attention, academic formation and a diversity of opportunities for human and spiritual growth, which are offered with warmth and love. Page 6

7 Our priority is to help them grow aware of their dignity as women and children of God. And to become good mothers who are able to take care of their babies nutrition, higiene and health with diligence, attention and love. Local schools and educational programs receive the girls with concern for their academic progress. Diverse courses in fields like computer training, health, childcare, crafts, bakery, drawing, hairdressing, acrylic nails etc. are valuable complements to their integral formation. We strive to accompany each girl in her struggles, difficulties and successes and stimulate them to keep up the effort for their personal growth. A work team of Sisters and employees care for our residents continually and offer counseling so they may resume their lives with human and Christian va-lues, preparing them to become agents of change in their families and in society. Babies grow healthy and happy. With their smiles and babbles they fill the Home with joy. Often we receive donations from the community which are of great utility for those served like strollers, cribs, playpens, highchairs, etc. When it s Time to Leave During it s 20 years of existence, Santa María Eufrasia Home has served 627 girls and their babies. All those that have been a part of our family are very important to the Sisters and personnel of the Home. Periodically Sisters and volunteers plan follow-up visits to the homes of the girls, and they receive these moments with gratitude and joy. Also, most all of the girls keep in touch with us by phone or occasionally visit the home to show off their children, share their memories, express gratitude and sometimes to ask for help. This sharing experience stimulates them and replenishes their hope. We rejoice when we receive the visit of the little girls and boys and even teenagers that come to see the Home that sheltered them when they were born! In some cases, we have been able to hire ex-residents as part of our staff. This gives us profound satisfaction. Page 7

8 Solidarity With the Mission We must mention the extraordinary support and solidarity that we have always received from the Bishopric, parsons, religious brethren, apostolic groups and the diversity of Christian denominations as well as civic community groups, schools, college students, foundations, banks, private businesses and families, etc. Also, we have received valuable monetary support from federal, state, and municipal sources. These funds have provided part of the operational and administrative expenses that have allowed us to improve the quality of services offered day by day. A multi-agency network has strengthened ties and has allowed an exchange of experiences which have also enriched our outreach. We pray that the Lord may abundantly bless all these friends and benefactors. We know He will reward even a glass of water given in His name Matthew. 10, 42 This noble group of citizens have given their all so that these fundraisers may be successful. Laicos del Buen Pastor The congregation of The Good Shepherd of Angers has promoted the formation of a group of lay sisters and brothers that bring to life the charisma and mercy of The Good Shepherd Jesus in their personal, family and social lives. Puerto Rico is fortunate to have this excellent group of laypersons presided at this moment by Mrs. Luz A. Suarez. The members have participated in important local and international experiences by participating in meetings and congresses with the purpose of strengthening their spirituality and invigorating their apostolate and misión in the world. Their testimony and dedication is an invitation to others, so that they may also enjoy this rich experience. This year another painful experience awaited us: MR. ARIEL CRUZ, a great and excellent friend, engaged in all the activities of the Home for many years, also parted, almost on tiptoes, making no noise, just like his life of service, hidden and humble to the call of the Lord. All his effort was dedicated to living the carisma of mercy and this is how his example continues alive among us. Mr. Cruz left for the eternal dwellings on March 7, These three seeds have been very fruitful, bearing works of charity for the well-being Page 8

9 of these young mothers and their babies. Hidden, in humble simplicity, they deposited their hopes, strengths and friendship in this Home and that is why the Joy of the Lord is now their eternal salary. To Love is to Give of Oneself! Last but not least, as a precious closure to these anniversary memoirs, we must mention a special group of friends that have always supported us and offered, completely free of charge, their special friendship, their knowledge, counselling and invaluable collaboration: Board of Directors Presided since 1998 by Dr. Segundo González, it is also composed of an excellent group of friends from the community, elected during our annual Assembly. They meet monthly in ordinary and extraordinary sessions. We would like to offer our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all who have been part of this group throughout the years. They have left their indelible footprints along the way during the history of the Home. These volunteers from the community, with steadfast generosity, have worked tirelessly for the benefit of this mission. Activities Committee Named by the Board of Directors, this dedicated committee strives to bring to reality all the initiatives and suggestions capable of generating new funds and resources that allow the provision for our mission s needs. At present it is presided by Mrs. Monserrat Escola. If the grain of wheat does not die... It will not bear fruit! Thus Jesús announced the fertility of God s Kingdom: To hide until death, so the fruit of eternal life may be reaped. The Home has also experienced this evangelical paradox that entails a hidden sacrifice and above all the Christian meaning of death. Jesus announces that those who allow their talents to bear fruit by being of service to the smallest, will receive the Joy of the Lord. We pay this deserving homage to those whom the Lord has called to His side, particularly three dear servants who devoted themselves to give life to this Home that welcomes the birth of life with hope, joy and gratitude. Our first remembrance is for SISTER VIRGINIA CHÁVEZ, a diligent worker who, through love, gave her whole life for the well-being of these young girls and children. Page 9

10 We remember her during what were to become her final days, counting and recounting with scrupulous exactness the funds that made posible the construction of our new home. She parted to our Father s House on June 26, MR. JIMMY COLÓN, for whom the gates of eternity opened at the dawning of this year. This faithful apostle s zeal made posible the arrival of the Sisters of The Good Shepherd to this boricua land. He has a privileged place in the heart of this home as founder and providencial father. Mr. Colón opened his Heart to the Good Shepherd who now has him by His side, in eternal joy, since January 23, Gratitude is the memory of the heart Saint Mary Eufrasia With our patron s significant phrase, full of mystic knowledge, we wish to end this brief remembrance. We have rapidly travelled a beautiful and fertile trail, where lights and shadows have been turned into signs of life. The vigils of work, the donations and fraternal support, the advice and counselling received from all who have approached this Home to offer their friendship, time, sincere affection and unconditional help have been engraved in the heart of God. Their names are written in the Book of Life and they will receive eternal rewards. Our search for resources and growth is not over. May Saint Mary Euphrasia bless us and continue with us during this pilgrimage in the land of Borinquen. Sister Marina Ureña Mora Good Shepherd of Angers Congregation Page 10

11 To give thanks is to lend our hands to the Lord of Life, returning hope to those who suffer. Page 11