Mrs Sherry

Every month I visit a nursing home. One day the new matron came herself to introduce me. As we entered a room she called out gently: “Mrs Sherry, here’s a visitor for you.” The back of the big chair faced the door. Sunken deep into it was the shrunken body of this little soul. Her mind was far away. Matron went to the front and called her out of her reverie with the cheerful news that she had a visitor. Wearing my black suit, black shirt, white collar, I loomed into view. And we all got a peak experience. Mrs Sherry’s face literally lit up. Her whole soul came to the surface. And, if her body had had any strength in it, she would have jumped up and embraced me. With all the vitality at her disposal channelled into her voice, she let out one word: “Father!”  It expressed so much surprise and joy! It is unbelievable that so much could be packed into one word.  One had to be there to take it all in: her face lighting up, the sound of her voice, the force that went with it, the brighter look in her eyes and the surge of her body, arms and hands, that would have ejected her upwards and out of her seat if she had had the strength. Behind that one word “Father” was a whole wealth and background of FAITH. Matron was amazed at the positive reaction. Several visitors, Mrs Sherry’s own children included, had called. Often she hardly responded. This was a revelation! The background of faith came to the foreground easily, and Mrs Sherry readily assented to receiving the consolation of the sacraments. Anointing? Gladly! Absolution, Communion? Yes, indeed, Father! She knew what she was doing. She was privileged to receive them. What that did to the matron I do not know. But when I called a month later she recognised me immediately. She told me how Mrs Sherry'’ lady doctor, too, was impressed and wondered if she would have more success with a black shirt and a backward collar.

Thank you, Lord, for giving a peak experience to us three: Mrs Sherry, the matron and me. Amen.

Andrew Zerafa  SJ  375 wds