His Spirit in Their Smiles
Technology Keeps Isolated Sisters in Touch During Social Distancing
Sister Margaret Elaine Rovnak fills the screen with her vibrant spirit during a video chat with Sister Elaine Hromulak.
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."
“The power of the Holy Spirit ... is seen spiritually in the form of spiritual light,
and comes with all calm and joy.”