Let brotherly/sisterly love continue. Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels. Heb. 13: 1-8
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Sr. Joye Gros, OP is currently on a 2-week mission serving refugees in El Paso, TX.[/caption]
Today's reading from Hebrews struck a chord. It went straight to my heart. I have certainly "entertained" (and been "entertained" by) angels.
At El Convento sisters and associates from multiple congregations and all across the country come to stay while ministering at the various sites receiving migrants. The Sisters of Loretto, who offer this convent as one of their ministries, certainly provide hospitality for volunteers.
The site coordinators and other volunteers are inspirations in their tireless generosity, compassion, and flexibility.
Each morning the site coordinator receives a text with the number of refugees who will be released that day and the number each site will receive. Yesterday 400 were released and our site welcomed 80.
The first task is to feed, welcome and orient them. A warm bowl of soothing soup is given as they arrive hungry. The detention centers often offer them only a frozen burrito.
The bilingual intake workers take their information and contact their sponsoring family/friends to coordinate transportation to their destination. Then each family member receives fresh clothes. Most popular are new underwear, socks, and warm coats. From there they receive a new toothbrush and clean towel for the long-awaited warm shower.
After a more substantial meal, all pitch in to do dishes, wipe tables and wash floors. Their gratitude is palatable. The mutuality of generosity and compassion is obvious.
Yes, I have "entertained" and been "entertained by" angels.
Gracias a Dios.
Joye Gros, OP