The Season of Creation 2024 was celebrated “down the shore.” On September 19, the Jeanne Jugan Associates sponsored a trip to Ocean City, NJ for Residents of St. Joseph’s Care Unit who would not otherwise have had the chance to spend a beautiful day at the shore. The thought of fresh salty air and vast horizons had early birds and night owls alike waking up with extra energy. Most began the day with 7 a.m. Mass offered by our chaplain, Fr. Sullivan. With Associates, Little Sisters, staff and a volunteer driver along for the fun, each Resident had someone to help them.
Initial worries of rain evaporated in the warm sunshine and gentle breeze of a day that could not have been more perfect. After enjoying a lunch of delicious Manco & Manco’s pizza, treat of the Associates, we took a stroll down the boardwalk, checking out the shops and attractions and stocking up on favorites such as Shriver’s salt water taffy and fudge and Johnson’s popcorn, remembering the special requests of those who hadn’t made the trip. We ended at a look-out point with a great view of the ocean, where seagulls were fishing, fighting in-flight over their catches. Ice cream in hand, we took in the breaking waves and felt happy for the children out there playing, even on a weekday in September. Friend of Holy Family Home, Steve, and his dog, Lily, met us there and delighted everyone with their visit.
On the way to the bus, we were all filled with gratitude for a day which brought back many happy memories. As Sr. Theresa Michel turned around to back down the ramp from the boardwalk in her wheelchair, she caught another glimpse of the water. “Goodbye ocean!” she said with a wave, “I love you!”