“Grow where you are planted”

“It’s difficult not to be depressed and lonely.”

These are the words of one of the residents in Holy Cross Home in Pretoria and they are words that are echoing all over the world, where people have not seen their families and friends for over a year and the routine and monotony of life is a heavy burden for all. These words touched Sr. Kathy Rule’s heart and inspired her to move into Mercy action.

First, she sought the permission of the matron to visit the residents twice a week – all protocols strictly being followed.

On her visits she first gave the residents time to reflect and share on different stories from Scripture. This was followed by “creative” time.

In her own words: “The activities cheered up the residents in a variety of ways. Colouring is a favourite activity and crayons are much appreciated. The Easter Gardens were an exciting project and everyone enjoyed making flowers from pipe cleaners and decorating with little eggs. 

Having made these lovely decorations we took some photos….and then we put them in frames. One could never imagine how a photo could bring so much joy.

A proud resident!

Play dough is fun and helped to bring the story of the Potter and the Clay to life.

The latest venture is using YouTube to get beyond the Lockdown. The residents were entertained for over an hour by watching a YouTube concert on the lounge wall.

It is very humbling to see how grateful the people are and what joy they get from coming together to pray and to have some fun.”

For a while the depression is easier to bear and the loneliness is forgotten.

 

Colleen Wilkinson rsm
South African Province