Spiritual Adventure

On this day in late April, Sister Sandra visits with Rosina Pascale, a patient receiving respite care - her frail body is wracked with rheumatoid arthritis.

"Rosina is the greatest prayer," says Sr. Sandra.

Sr. Sandra’s gift quickly emerges in these brief moments as the pair hold hands while sitting on the edge of the hospital bed. Radiating compassion and respect, Sister listens. They chat about the Florida vacation that Rosina’s daughter and grandchildren are taking.

As a member of the Spiritual Care department, Sister Sandra Shannon brings her presence and compassion into the lives of patients, their families and staff at Providence Continuing Care Centre, St. Mary’s of the Lake -the venerable hospital that stares out onto Kingston’s waterfront.

Working on the front line, and responding to new challenges, Sister Sandra witnesses daily to God’s love for all.

"Coming to people with an openness, seeing the sacred in them, and accepting them for who they are" is how Sister describes her daily work.

This quiet and self-professed introvert visits with patients in the Complex Continuing Care program and the Specialized Geriatric Service program within the hospital as a Spiritual Care Associate.

Prior to coming to St. Mary’s of the Lake, Sister Sandra spent nine years on the Leadership Council of the Sisters of Providence after years in nursing and initial formation ministry for the congregation.

Her present mission is demanding both physically and emotionally. Sister says she needs to keep herself healthy to do her job effectively. To re-energize when she’s not working, Sister admits to one guilty pleasure well known among the members of the congregation - to sleep in late on Saturday mornings. At the home

she shares with Sister Alda Brady, she spends her spare time doing household tasks and enjoying a barbeque.

Sister Sandra Shannon was a young and impressionable 18-year-old when she was drawn to religious life by a calling, which has lead to a full and satisfying life. She describes her life as an adventure in the pursuit of coming to love God deeper, Trusting in Providence and helping and believing in others.

Another member of the Sisters of Providence community carries on a mission at St. Mary’s of the Lake Hospital. Sr. Susan Pye volunteers in the gift shop and serves as communion minister each week.

Sr. Sandra Shannon with patient Rosina Pascale.