Risen Life

My sister died on Saturday and I am writing up her biography to use in the various memorial services that will be held for her in the many placed where she lived and worked and ministered.  As I am doing so, I realize how she lived what we all know as "Risen Life."  This is part of her biography.

In 1982, at the age of 65, Mildred retired and moved into the Resurrection Retirement Community.  She was a welcoming presence for newcomers to the facility.  New residents would answer a knock on their door and be greeted by a smiling Mildred holding a sweet roll or some other goodies.  For many years, she was the coordinator of the ministers of communion. She knew the liturgy well and could guide other residents who took part in the chapel ministries especially for special occasions such as the living rosary, yearly service remembering residents who had died. and particularly the Triduum or Holy Week Services. Because of her nursing and physical therapy background, she was aware of the needs of the other residents.  She would alert the Executive Director to what Mildred thought “you should know.” This ranged from physical things that needed attention, residents whom she felt need more care or attention, and chapel need.  She did this in a most unobtrusive way.  The Activity Coordinator said of her that “" We were kindred spirits". They used to have wonderful talks on the Holy Spirit. She touched many fellow residents with her faith and her kindness and made many close friends while she was there.
 
Mildred was known for her kindness. She was always looking for opportunities to do kind things for others.  She annual requested masses to be offered for the Sisters of the Resurrection and their family members.  When she discerned that a family member was having trouble making a payment or wanted to make an investment in education or some project that seemed good to her, she would offer them financial help.  She loved to play Pinochle but not as much as she loved being a partner so that other people could enjoy the game, even though they could not always see the cards well or keep the score well. 
 
We thank God for her life and what she made of it. In her 93 years she touched many people and made the world a better place.