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Virtual Benedictine Remembrance and Renewal Service to remember, honor

On March 23 at 10 a.m., residents, family members and employees from Benedictine Living Communities across Benedictine gathered to remember those who passed and honor all employees in a virtual Remembrance and Renewal Service recorded in part at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, St. Paul, Minn.

One year ago, nursing homes across our nation closed their doors to visitors to reduce the threat of COVID-19 from spreading to vulnerable seniors. Benedictine Living Communities instituted aggressive infection control measures and employees stepped up to be family, friends and support to residents who began visiting with their family members and friends through windows or technology.

“March is also the month when spring returns and we celebrate the Feast Day of St. Benedict. It is the perfect time for us to pause, reflect and remember what we have been through this last year and what we have to look forward to as a faith community caring for our residents,” said Jerry Carley, Benedictine president/CEO.

The Benedictine Remembrance and Renewal Service featured a special message from the Sisters of St. Scholastica Monastery, Duluth; a virtual choir of Benedictine employees; readings and reflections from Benedictine leaders; and a video thank you from residents and family members from Benedictine communities.

Each Benedictine Community hosted a watch party and fellowship gathering after the service. The Remembrance and Renewal Service and fellowship gatherings were made possible with funds provided by the Benedictine Foundation.

The Remembrance and Renewal Service may be viewed on YouTube at Benedictine Health.

Jerry Carley
Jerry Carley, Benedictine president/CEO, shares his thoughts at Benedictine Remembrance and Renewal Service.
Benedictine employees gather to remember those who passed as part of the Remembrance and Renewal Service
Benedictine employees gather to remember those who passed as part of the Remembrance and Renewal Service