Little Sisters of the Poor celebrated the March 19 feast of their patron, St. Joseph, at Mullen Home for the Aged in a joyful manner that included the participation of 21 priests from the Denver Archdiocese.
Events began with a festive eucharistic celebration in the home’s chapel, according to Sister Joseph Marie Cruz, with main celebrant Msgr. Bernie Schmitz, vicar for clergy; and concelebrants Father Timothy Kremen, O.S.M., Mullen Home chaplain, two resident priests: Fathers Jan Mucha and John Canjar, and 17 visiting priests. The celebration was enhanced by the residents’ choir.
“During Msgr. Schmitz’s homily he spoke about the different virtues of St. Joseph,” Sister Joseph Marie said. “Focusing on his ‘attentive listening to God,’ which are values pertinent to our daily life.”
Following Mass, priest donned white aprons and helped serve meals to residents in the two dining rooms. After serving, they joined them for “the delicious feast day meal.”
“Residents enjoyed visiting with priests they had known over the years,” Sister Joseph Marie said.
The sisters expressed their gratitude to the clergy for taking time from their busy schedules to “unite with us in thanking St. Joseph for his providential care” and “bringing joy to the residents.”
That afternoon, members of the Association Jeanne Jugan, a lay organization that supports the Little Sisters in caring for the elderly poor, hosted a “St. Joseph’s Table” in the auditorium. There residents enjoyed homemade treats prepared by members; and residents and sisters shared anecdotes about providential interventions of St. Joseph in their lives and how devotion to him has strengthened their faith.
“Since the beginning of the congregation of the Little Sisters of the Poor, St. Joseph has been an instrument of God’s providence for them in meeting the daily needs of the elderly,” Sister said. “Many times funds needed to pay the bills have arrived after the Little Sisters had recourse to their patron saint. Whenever the Little Sisters need items for the residents… they place the request at the feet of the statue of St. Joseph and are confident their prayers will be answered.”
