On July 9, an appreciation breakfast was held in Providence for the staff who support Catholic Hospital Ministry in the Diocese of Providence. These individuals coordinate the schedules for extraordinary ministers of holy Communion and the numerous priests who visit daily the hospitals in the State of Rhode Island. Pastoral support and sacraments are provided for countless patients who are seriously ill, infirm or nearing death. The staff represented at the breakfast have been committed to this ministry for many years, ranging from nine to 32 years. The seven staff members who attended represented a collective 148 years of support to hospital ministry. Father Albert Ranallo, coordinator for Health Care Ministry in the Diocese of Providence, thanked all for their many dedicated years of service. “Without the work that you do the hospital ministry would not be possible,” said Father Ranallo, as he offered a blessing to begin the meeting. Attendees provided valuable input for Father Ranallo with examples of “best practice” in hospital ministry. Father Ranallo was pleased with the meeting outcome and stated “We hope this will become an annual event.” Appreciating the caregivers: Father Albert Ranallo, coordinator for Health Care Ministry in the Diocese of Providence, center, gathers with support staff during an appreciation breakfast for their efforts on July 9. With Father Ranallo, from left are James Willsey, Kathleen Carney, Caroline Viera, Louise Barone, Michael Leighton, Deacon John Baker and Camille Pepin.
