Residents, administrators and guests gathered for Mass and a reception on Sept. 25 to mark the 60th anniversary of the Village of St. Edward in Fairlawn.
“What a joy it is to have this oasis of health, healing and hope,” said Bishop Edward Malesic, principal celebrant for the liturgy.
“The Village of St. Edward serves a higher purpose – God’s purpose – and that faith in God is the driving constant in the level of care, respect and empathy experienced here,” he added.
The bishop told those attending the Mass that we are strengthened by our common faith in God and our ability to pray, reflect and worship together. “And, over the years, what a goodness it has been to have the faithful support of our local clergy and religious sisters, especially the Dominican sisters, to support us in our faith journey.”
(See photo gallery above.)
A village is a settlement of different people clustered around a central point, Bishop Malesic said.
“And here, the Village of St. Edward is a place to believe together. It is centered on God, whose son asked that we follow him and walk in his way. This village is a special place that allows you to become your best, as disciples of Jesus. It is a place to belong. This extraordinary village provides outstanding care for those who are up in years, or in need of rehabilitation. It is a village of persons who not only honor the sacredness of life, but also protect the dignity of every resident,” the bishop said.
“And by the way, I like its name, which is mine, too,” he quipped.
Since the Village of St. Edward was founded, much has changed, not only in terms of medical advances, but also in how the needs of the senior population should be addressed compassionately, the bishop said.
Reflecting on the Bible, he noted that there are many passages in which Jesus is moved when he meets people who are suffering. He welcomes them and heals. Pope Francis said Jesus did not explain suffering but bent toward those who suffer.
“He does not approach pain with generic encouragement and sterile consolations, but accepts its drama, allowing himself to be touched by it,” the pope said. Christ, the pope said, transformed human suffering by making it his own and offering it to the father as a gift of love. The bishop encouraged the faithful to reflect on this, adding the spiritual care available at the Village of St. Edward can help people to take comfort in uniting their suffering with that of Christ.
“Again, Jesus is found in our wounds,” he added.
In the Gospel, Jesus gave instructions to the apostles as a reminder to them and the Church to keep their mission in balance. The disciples were sent to proclaim Christ’s kingdom and to heal the sick.
“It is true the Church is not simply a social service agency and cannot alleviate all the social ills in our society,” the bishop said. “But the Church is bound not only to spiritual works of mercy but to the corporate works, as well. The Lord does not present them as optional. That is why the Village of St. Edward exists today, to take care of the physical and spiritual needs of every resident as Jesus would – with kindness, humility and empathy.”
He noted Jesus sent his disciples out two by two for their ministry because he knows that together we are better.
“To be a member of a village is better than sitting home alone. So, let’s walk together and let’s walk together until all of us will be made saints by the love of God. That is the goal – to become saints,” the bishop said.
“My prayer for everyone here at the Village of St. Edward is that your faith and love of God continues to grow and provides you with comfort and peace through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen,” he added.
After Mass, the bishop greeted residents and guests before enjoying a reception in the village’s dining room.
Learn more about the Village of St. Edward here.