Melissa Fogarty Perez, Coordinator for Sisters of Charity at skilled nursing facilities
By Charlotte Raftery, SC
How did I come to be in ministry with the Sisters at Mary the Queen, and now with the Sisters in Schervier and St. Patrick’s Home? You might say God called me when I saw the advertisement for the job at Mary the Queen, and Sister Kathleen McHugh hired me. The call came again when we were told about the closing, and I heard an inner voice saying, “Fogarty, that’s all right; there is somebody up there.” For the Sisters sake, we had to “control” feelings. I went home and cried for two days… “What am I going to do?” Again, an inner voice came, “it will be o.k. God is with me.” Just “hang out…” For three weeks… just had a sense… then Sharon Dosin, Director of Human Resources, told me about the newly-created position.
I just love being with the Sisters. It is very meaningful. It is something I am meant to do. Little by little I had been being pointed in this direction. I put myself in their place; imagine myself in their shoes and how I would want to be treated. It means taking an extra moment just to pay attention to the little things that tell you something; having the flexibility to be able to “back off” until Sister is comfortable with the plan. Their trust means a lot of intimacy. They know who they can trust. I always look to each to see the real reaction. I have earned the trust and respect of the staff, helping out when they are shorthanded, not considering it a “favor.”
I have gradually grown into the role over two years — I just love the work. It is meaningful, something I am meant to do. I have learned a lot about myself, am honored that the Sisters trust me — they would “follow me to the moon.” Someday this will be “us.” We do not know the future.
Melissa, you do a wonderful job! May the Lord continue to bless you!
Melissa is truly a wonderful person- I already knew this from knowing her in PT while recuperating at the Queen.Her caring joyful presence means so much.We are truly blessed that she is with us.
Sr Arlie
She is also a great cat sitter!
I love this interview with Melissa Perez. I’m so happy she loves her meaningful job helping the dear sisters at this stage of their lives in a nursing facility. Yes, it is most meaningful and a joy for them to have someone minister to them who finds joy in it too!
Thanks for the info about Melissa and thank you Melissa. I did not know of your role with the Sisters. I am happy to hear about you. God Bless
Hi Mellisa, it is always great to see you visiting with the Sisters at St. Patrick’s, you love them & that is what it is all about, keep up your good work. Xo
This was a lovely story about faith and trust. Everyone should experience this type of relationship in their life. It makes it a joy and a celebration .
Thanks for sharing.