I have ministered at Mary’s Guest House for almost 15 years. It is challenging and at times it feels like you are riding a roller coaster.  The guests have all been traumatized and their behavior can be erratic. However, as the healing process begins, you see little by little that change takes place and you pray that it will continue. I have been here long enough to witness some incredible transformations and rejoice with them for their courage and resilience. The guests in many ways show a deep sense of gratitude for what they have received. Nevertheless, as someone who has accompanied with them, I  am grateful for all I have received from them. 

Sr. Christina and Sr. Lucie with a guest at Carlsbad Flower Field 2023.

They have taught me so many things.  Because of them, I have grown in my appreciation for all that I have: the gifts of trust, freedom, wonderful family and friends, and the blessings of community. They have entrusted us with stories of their lives, and this is both a humbling and graced experience. Although the guests come from a variety of faiths or no faith at all, I have experienced God’s unconditional love and mercy for each person in a concrete and tangible way. God has also blessed us with some wonderful friends and donors who have sustained us over the past 18 years, and to all of them and our congregation, I am forever grateful.